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A domestic terrorism case in Boulder, Colorado, has taken a shocking turn as new details surface about the suspect’s yearlong preparations to execute a violent assault on a peaceful pro-Israel demonstration. Court documents reveal that Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national with an expired visa, meticulously planned this attack targeting a gathering that aimed to raise awareness about the plight of Israeli hostages.
Soliman reportedly indicated to federal authorities that his intent to unleash violence had been brewing for quite some time. He specifically mentioned waiting for his daughter’s graduation before moving forward with his nefarious plans.
Details of the Attack Plot
According to the federal complaint, the suspect took various steps to ensure the attack’s success. He conducted extensive research on how to construct incendiary devices, learning from YouTube videos. Over the course of a year, he gathered the necessary materials and transported the homemade Molotov cocktails to Boulder, hidden in his silver Toyota Prius.
Attack Day Events
On June 1 at approximately 12:55 p.m. MST, Soliman arrived early at the demonstration, which was organized by a group called “Run For Their Lives.” This organization aimed to bring attention to the situation of Israeli hostages. As participants began to gather in Boulder’s Pearl Street area, Soliman reportedly shouted “Free Palestine!” and hurled two lit Molotov cocktails into the crowd at around 2 p.m. MST. He was arrested shortly thereafter.
Impact on the Community
The act, characterized by the FBI as a targeted terror attack, resulted in injuries to twelve individuals, aged between 52 and 88, with one victim reported in critical condition. Thankfully, there were no fatalities among the victims.
Motivations of the Suspect
Investigators have uncovered chilling statements from Soliman. He claimed to have specifically targeted what he described as a “Zionist group” and expressed a desire that all of them were dead. In his interactions with authorities, he stated, “I would do it again,” reflecting a deeply entrenched ideology motivating his violent actions.
Documents indicate that Soliman viewed the individuals at the event as an existential threat to the land he referred to as Palestine. His misguided beliefs fueled a dangerous conviction that their presence needed to be eradicated.
Evidence Collected by Authorities
Law enforcement officials recovered at least fourteen unlit Molotov cocktails along with gasoline, red rags, and a weed sprayer, which they suspect was meant for distributing flammable liquids. Additionally, evidence found in Soliman’s vehicle included various papers inscribed with the terms “Israel,” “Palestine,” and “USAID.” This suggests a preoccupation with these contentious issues that may have contributed to his criminal intent.
Eyewitness Accounts
An alarming video shared on social media appears to show Soliman shortly after the attack. In this footage, he is seen shirtless, pacing and brandishing one of the makeshift weapons while exclaiming, “How many children killed?” He then shouts, “End Zionist.” Eyewitnesses have also recounted moments of horror as they witnessed the chaos unfold.
Further Investigations
In the aftermath of the attack, authorities have conducted thorough investigations around Soliman’s home. Inside, they found a journal and an iPhone containing messages intended for his family. Soliman’s wife later cooperated with law enforcement by providing the iPhone for examination.
Furthermore, a storage unit linked to Soliman was located behind his residence, adding another layer of scrutiny to his activities and intentions.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Soliman now faces serious charges under federal hate crime laws for actions motivated by race, religion, or national origin, specifically violating U.S. Code sections related to these offenses. His case has drawn considerable media attention, underscoring the ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and its impact on communities.
A Community Grappling with Fear
The Boulder community is now left to grapple with the fear and tension resulting from this attack. As local leaders work to reassure residents and strengthen public safety measures, the events surrounding Soliman’s attack will likely reverberate for some time. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance in the face of growing extremism and the need for community solidarity.
As investigators continue to review the evidence and gather more information, the case of Mohamed Sabry Soliman serves as a somber reminder of the complexities surrounding domestic terrorism and the underlying motivations that can spur individuals to violent actions. The need for public discourse on hate, violence, and acceptance has never been more pressing.
