Boulder Community Holds Vigil to Honor Victims After Firebombing Attack Injures 12

The Boulder community is still in shock following a violent firebombing attack that left twelve people injured during a demonstration calling for the release of Israeli hostages. As officials piece together what led up to the attack at the bustling Pearl Street pedestrian mall, residents are preparing to gather for a vigil Wednesday evening at the local Jewish community center, coming together to support those most deeply affected.

According to police affidavits, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the alleged attacker, intended to target the approximately 20 participants in Sunday’s demonstration. He arrived with eighteen homemade Molotov cocktails, but ultimately threw only two while shouting “Free Palestine.” Investigators say Soliman—who has been residing in the United States illegally—abandoned his full plan after becoming frightened during the act. Despite his stated intent, authorities noted that Soliman had no previous history of violence, and he reportedly told police that even his own family was unaware of his plot.

The aftermath of the incident has drawn fresh scrutiny to immigration policies after federal officials detained Soliman’s wife and five children the day following the attack. The White House said that the family could face swift deportation, a move that legal experts describe as highly unusual when it comes to relatives of those accused of crimes. Department of Homeland Security officials stated that Soliman initially entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in 2022, later filed for asylum, and had a work permit temporarily before both authorizations expired.

As investigators pore over evidence, details have emerged about Soliman’s life before the attack. Originally from a farming town in Egypt’s Nile Delta, Soliman spent nearly two decades in Kuwait before bringing his family to Colorado Springs. Court filings indicate he planned the attack for a year, delaying it until after his daughter’s graduation. A recent profile of the family highlighted their adjustment to life in America, including his daughter's academic achievements and volunteer work at a hospital.

The attack has further ignited concern amid growing tensions around the Israel-Hamas conflict, which analysts say has contributed to a surge in antisemitic incidents in the United States. The Boulder demonstration was one of many organized by the group Run For Their Lives, whose weekly gatherings have become a fixture in the city. The incident occurred on the eve of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, heightening its emotional impact on the community. Authorities confirmed that Soliman acted alone and is facing both federal hate crime and state attempted murder charges, with his bond set at an unprecedented $10 million.

Of the twelve victims—ranging in age from 52 to 88—three remained hospitalized as of Tuesday. The group included Holocaust survivors and local volunteers, underscoring the devastating personal toll. Law enforcement officials expressed relief that the injuries were not even more serious, given the nature of the attack. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as firefighters and bystanders rushed to extinguish flames, while police emphasized the bravery of those present.

As Boulder residents gather for the scheduled vigil, the city is grappling with the lasting trauma of the attack. Floral tributes and Israeli flags have appeared at makeshift memorials across the city, reflecting the grief and solidarity of a shaken community. With investigations ongoing and the suspect’s court proceedings underway, many are hoping that coming together will provide a measure of strength and healing in the days ahead.