Suspect in Boulder Firebombing at Pro-Israel Event Faces Federal Hate Crime Charges

Suspect in Boulder Firebombing at Pro-Israel Event Faces Federal Hate Crime Charges

The individual accused of injuring over a dozen people by launching Molotov cocktails into a peaceful pro-Israel demonstration appeared in federal court in Denver on Friday. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, now faces federal hate crime charges in connection with this alarming incident.

In addition to the federal hate crime charge, Soliman is implicated in several other serious offenses in Colorado. These include attempted murder among other charges, significantly heightening the severity of his legal predicament.

Details of the Incident

Soliman reportedly prepared 18 Molotov cocktails prior to driving to Boulder on June 1. He anticipated the arrival of demonstrators participating in the “Run For Their Lives,” an event organized to support Israeli hostages. Armed with incendiary devices, Soliman allegedly targeted the crowd by hurling two Molotov cocktails, which ignited and caused panic.

On the day of his court appearance, Soliman was seen in a green jumpsuit and handcuffs, appearing in a courtroom filled with onlookers. As he awaited the start of the hearing, he exhibited anxious behavior, silently rocking in his chair while occasionally scanning the room.

Legal Proceedings

During the proceedings, the court began by asking Soliman if he had read the charges filed against him. After confirming he had read the complaint, Soliman listened as the judge read his rights. He then requested a court-appointed attorney, a request that the court granted based on his qualifications.

Prosecutor Melissa Hindman requested that Soliman remain in custody. The defendant did not contest this request, leading Magistrate Judge Kathryn A. Starnella to order his detention. The next court date was established for 10 a.m. on June 18, an important step in this ongoing legal case.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses at the scene described a shocking display of violence as Soliman threw what appeared to be a glass bottle into the crowd. According to an affidavit, the bottle exploded on impact, creating large flames and sending people fleeing in chaos. Additionally, Soliman allegedly improvised a commercial weed sprayer to act as a makeshift blowtorch, amplifying the danger of the situation.

Investigators found multiple glass bottles filled with flammable liquid, a lighter, rags, an insecticide sprayer, and a BB gun styled like an AR rifle in Soliman’s 2015 silver Toyota Prius. These findings paint a chilling picture of premeditated violence aimed at innocent civilians.

Motives and Intentions

During an interview with law enforcement, Soliman expressed no remorse for the injuries inflicted on others and made statements indicating he would repeat his actions if he had the chance. His lack of contrition raises significant concerns about his motivations and the potential for future violence.

Authorities also found a copy of the Quran and documentation with terms such as “Israel,” “Palestine,” and “USAID” among Soliman’s possessions. This discovery prompted speculation regarding his motivations, adding another layer of urgency to the investigation.

Implications of the Charges

Soliman faces numerous charges, including multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault, combined with possession of incendiary devices. Originally, he was held on a staggering $10 million bond, which reflects the potential threat he poses to the community.

If convicted, he could face the possibility of 384 years in state prison should the court choose to impose consecutive sentences. Additionally, he has been charged with two counts for the use of an incendiary device, adding up to a potential 48 years if also served consecutively.

The Road Ahead

As the legal proceedings unfold, the seriousness of the charges against Soliman cannot be overstated. This case not only highlights the risks posed by individuals who seek to promote hate through violence but also underscores the justice system’s role in addressing such threats.

With the next hearing set for June 18, the focus will remain on the evidence presented and the arguments made by both the prosecution and defense. Many await the outcome of this case, which has implications for community safety and the ongoing discourse surrounding hate crimes.

With the investigation ongoing, authorities will continue to work diligently to ensure that justice is served, and that the message against hate and violence remains clear.

Contributions to this report were made by news staff.