USAID Documents Recovered in Car of Boulder Suspect Linked to Pro-Israel Group Terror Plot
Investigators find USAID paperwork in Mohamed Sabry Soliman's car linked to Boulder explosives incident.
Authorities in Boulder, Colorado are investigating a violent attack that left eight people injured on Sunday when a man, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, allegedly threw explosive devices at a group participating in a peaceful protest. The incident occurred on Pearl Street as members of the pro-Israel organization "Run for Their Lives" gathered to advocate for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Boulder police confirmed initial reports that a suspect had been seen setting people on fire, and quickly apprehended Soliman at the scene. An arrest affidavit revealed that inside his 2015 silver Toyota Prius, law enforcement found paperwork referencing "USAID," as well as documents mentioning "Israel" and "Palestine." Officers also recovered a red gas container, rags, and, nearby, a black plastic container housing at least 14 unlit Molotov cocktails, pointing to premeditation and preparation for a potentially deadlier attack.
Although paperwork bearing the word "USAID" was discovered, officials clarified that Soliman is not employed by the United States Agency for International Development. Further investigation uncovered that prior to the attack, Soliman left messages for his family, a journal, and an iPhone at his Colorado Springs residence, suggesting he expected not to return home.
During interviews with federal and local authorities, Soliman allegedly confessed that he targeted what he described as a "Zionist group" in an attempt to prevent them from "taking over our land," referring to Palestine. According to investigators, Soliman had been plotting the attack for nearly a year and waited until his daughter graduated before executing his plan. He further indicated to authorities that, given another chance, he would commit the act again.
The attack has generated significant concern among both local officials and national law enforcement agencies. FBI director Kash Patel labeled it a terror attack and affirmed that a full investigation is underway. Boulder police, alongside federal partners, have increased security in the area as they continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Court records indicate Soliman faces numerous charges including first-degree murder – deliberation with intent, first-degree murder – extreme indifference, crimes against at-risk adults/elderly, first-degree assault, criminal attempt to commit class one and class two felonies, and unlawful use of explosives or incendiary devices during a felony. He is currently being held on a $10 million bond after reportedly shouting "Free Palestine" during his arrest.
The case has also drawn attention to Soliman's immigration status. Investigators confirmed that Soliman is an Egyptian national who entered the United States on a B1/B2 non-immigrant visa in August 2022. His visa expired in February 2023, but he failed to leave the country and later obtained a work permit valid through March 2025 after filing a claim with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Despite this, he remained in the country unlawfully, raising questions about the oversight of visa overstays and work authorization processes.
As the Boulder community reels from this shocking incident, law enforcement officials stress that the investigation remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to the attack to come forward. Meanwhile, those injured in the attack are receiving medical care as the city works to recover from this unprecedented and deeply disturbing event.
