Man Charged with Federal Hate Crime in Boulder Firebombing at Pro-Israel Event

The man accused of launching a violent attack on a group of peaceful pro-Israel demonstrators in Boulder last weekend made his first appearance in federal court in Denver on Friday, facing a charge of federal hate crime among other serious offenses. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, is also facing several state charges in Colorado, including multiple counts of attempted murder.

Authorities allege Soliman orchestrated the assault by assembling 18 Molotov cocktails ahead of the June 1 demonstration, which was organized as a show of support for Israeli hostages. According to investigators, Soliman traveled from Colorado Springs to Boulder, arriving before the event began. As demonstrators gathered for the "Run For Their Lives" rally, Soliman allegedly threw two incendiary devices into the assembled crowd, resulting in injuries to over a dozen people and spreading panic at the peaceful event.

In court on Friday, Soliman appeared subdued, wearing a green jail-issued jumpsuit and handcuffs. While awaiting the start of proceedings, he sat quietly, rocking in his chair and avoiding eye contact with members of the audience. When prompted by the magistrate, Soliman confirmed he had read the criminal complaint against him. He was then informed of his legal rights and requested a court-appointed attorney, which the court granted after determining his eligibility.

Federal prosecutors asked that Soliman remain in detention pending further hearings. Soliman did not contest this request, and Magistrate Judge Kathryn A. Starnella ordered that he continue to be held in custody. The next court date has been scheduled for June 18 at 10 a.m.

Eyewitnesses described the terrifying moment when Soliman allegedly hurled a glass bottle into the crowd, which shattered and erupted in flames. He also reportedly wielded a commercial weed sprayer repurposed as a "makeshift blowtorch," adding to the chaos. In the aftermath, law enforcement officers searching Soliman's silver Toyota Prius recovered glass bottles filled with flammable liquid, a lighter, rags, an insecticide sprayer, and an AR-style BB gun. Investigators also found a Quran and paperwork referencing "Israel," "Palestine," and "USAID." These findings, along with a journal and iPhone left at Soliman’s home, detailed months of preparation and shed light on his motivations.

During interviews with law enforcement, Soliman reportedly expressed no remorse for his actions and indicated he would repeat them if given the chance. The attack, prosecutors allege, was meticulously planned—authorities say Soliman spent up to a year plotting the details after being denied a firearms purchase.

The charges against Soliman are extensive, ranging from attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault to possession and use of incendiary devices. He was initially held on a $10 million bond, reflecting the severity of the accusations. If convicted on all counts and sentenced consecutively, he could face up to 384 years in state prison. Additional charges relating to the use of incendiary devices could add another 48 years to his sentence.

This case has drawn national attention as it highlights the ongoing tensions and dangers faced by individuals attending public demonstrations. The upcoming court proceedings are expected to provide further insight into the motives behind this violent act and the steps law enforcement is taking to prevent similar incidents in the future.