The Boulder County District Attorney’s Office has charged 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman with 118 counts linked to a firebombing incident at Pearl Street Mall that injured 15 individuals on Sunday. The serious charges include attempted first-degree murder, assault, the use of incendiary devices, and animal cruelty, among others. If convicted, each attempted murder charge carries a potential sentence of up to 48 years in prison.
At a recent press conference, Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty addressed concerns regarding the suspect’s immigration status and the potential repercussions for his family, who are currently detained by ICE. Dougherty emphasized that ensuring Soliman remains in the country is essential for a thorough prosecution. “I am absolutely committed to making sure the defendant is fully prosecuted,” he stated.
Soliman, who is an Egyptian national, will be defended by Kathryn Herold from the Colorado Public Defender’s Office. His next court date is a preliminary hearing set for July 15.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn noted that the suspect was arrested just six minutes after authorities were alerted to the attack. The swift response from emergency services was a boon; the first three units dispatched were paramedic fire engines, which enabled immediate aid to the victims.
Details surrounding the incident reveal that Soliman allegedly utilized a makeshift flamethrower to launch incendiary devices at participants in a “Run for Their Lives” demonstration—an event aimed at raising awareness about hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Eyewitness accounts confirm that several individuals caught fire, leading to injuries, with three of the victims currently hospitalized.
Victims of this heinous attack represent a wide demographic, with ages ranging from 25 to 88. Among the injured, eight are female and seven are male, with one dog also suffering injuries during the attack.
While only one federal hate crime charge has been filed thus far, authorities anticipate that more charges could follow. The ingredients of the incendiary devices—composed of wine carafes and gasoline—were not sourced from Colorado, which may classify this incident as an interstate crime. The U.S. Department of Justice has yet to comment on the timeline for any additional charges.
Dougherty expressed the commitment of law enforcement to work alongside federal and state partners in response to this shocking act of violence, stating, “We stand with the Jewish community and the people of Colorado against hate and terror.” He emphasized the importance of community safety, especially with upcoming events that may see increased police presence.
As the investigation continues, authorities are keen to speak with any additional witnesses or victims who have yet to come forward to ensure justice and coverage for all affected.
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