In a significant development following the recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, immigration authorities have arrested the wife and children of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the man suspected of perpetrating the violence. US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the arrests, highlighting the ongoing investigation into whether Soliman's family had any knowledge or involvement in the heinous act.
Mohamed Sabry Soliman, aged 45, faces serious charges including attempted murder, assault, and possession of an incendiary device. This incident resulted in injuries to a dozen individuals during a march advocating for the release of Israeli hostages. Reports indicate that Soliman shouted “Free Palestine” while throwing two petrol bombs into the crowd. Additionally, he has been charged with a federal hate crime, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Secretary Noem took to social media platform X to inform the public about the situation, stating, “We are investigating to what extent his family knew about this heinous attack, if they had knowledge of it, or if they provided support to it.” The implications of these arrests raise questions about the family dynamics and their potential awareness of Soliman’s intentions.
The attack left twelve people injured, including four men and four women aged between 52 and 88. Among the victims is Rabbi Israel Wilhelm, a Holocaust survivor and the Chabad director at the University of Colorado Boulder. His presence at the march underscores the diverse community affected by this violence.
According to law enforcement affidavits, Soliman admitted to carrying out the attack and revealed that he had been planning it for over a year. He arrived in the United States on a tourist visa in August 2022, which expired the following year. Subsequently, he filed an asylum claim in September 2022, raising questions about his legal status and intentions in the country.
In a shocking twist, police documents indicate that Soliman had not disclosed his plans to his family, having left behind a phone containing messages intended for them. His wife eventually turned this phone over to authorities, which could provide crucial information in the ongoing investigation. One of Soliman's daughters, who recently graduated from high school, was recognized with a scholarship, emphasizing the family's academic aspirations despite the unfolding tragedy.
Soliman made a brief appearance in court via video feed from the Boulder County Jail, where he answered procedural questions but did not provide any further statements. His next court date is scheduled for Thursday, where formal charges will be filed, along with a bail hearing.
This incident has not only shocked the Boulder community but has also raised pressing questions about immigration laws and the responsibilities of family members in such situations. As investigations continue, the focus will shift to understanding the full extent of the motivations behind the attack and the implications for Soliman’s family.
