The man accused of perpetrating a terrorist act during a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, has been identified as Mohamed Soliman, a 45-year-old who is currently in the United States illegally. This shocking incident, which resulted in eight individuals needing hospitalization, has raised serious concerns about immigration status and public safety.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, Soliman entered the U.S. on a B2 visa in August 2022, which is generally issued for tourism purposes. In September 2022, he filed for asylum, but his B2 visa expired in February 2023. Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, confirmed these details, revealing that Soliman was granted a work permit after the expiration of his visa. However, this work permit expired on March 28, 2023, which means he has been residing in the country illegally since that date.
On Sunday afternoon, during a demonstration known as the Run for Their Lives, Soliman allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower and threw an incendiary device into a crowd of pro-Israel demonstrators at a pedestrian mall. Eyewitnesses reported that he yelled "Free Palestine" during the attack, as stated by the FBI. This demonstration aimed to raise awareness about hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and called for their immediate release.
The attack resulted in eight victims suffering from burns, with one person reportedly in critical condition. The ages of the injured range from 52 to 88, as confirmed by local police. Following the incident, Soliman was taken into custody and is currently being held on a $10 million bond. The Boulder County Jail has listed multiple felony charges against him, including the use of an incendiary device. There has also been mention of a first-degree murder charge, although it is not yet clear if this pertains to attempted murder. Fortunately, local law enforcement has confirmed that there have been no fatalities as a result of the attack.
Soliman is scheduled to appear in court on Monday afternoon, where further developments in this case are expected to unfold. As this story is still developing, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
