News Summary
A peaceful gathering of Boulder community members supporting Israeli hostages turned into chaos when a man launched a flamethrower attack, injuring six. Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrific with severe burns and panic throughout the crowd. The attacker, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, yelled anti-Zionist slogans during the assault. Local and federal authorities have branded the incident as targeted terrorism, prompting discussions on rising antisemitism as the community rallies for safety and healing after the tragedy.
Horrific Flamethrower Attack Injures Six at Boulder Jewish Gathering
In a shocking incident that has left the Boulder community reeling, a man unleashed chaos at a gathering of Jewish community members, using a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to inflict harm on those attending. The gathering was meant to be a peaceful event aimed at supporting Israeli hostages in Gaza but quickly turned into a scene of panic and terror.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred during a weekly meeting that brought together community members aged between 67 and 88. Eyewitness reports indicate that what unfolded was nothing short of horrifying. One eyewitness described **_the excruciating scene_** as he watched individuals suffer severe burns, with some having their pants completely burned off. The chaos erupted after the suspect, a 45-year-old man named Mohamed Sabry Soliman, stormed into the gathering with a **_makeshift flamethrower_** that he appeared to be carrying like a gardening sprayer, filled with **_incendiary materials_**.
Suspect’s Actions and Motivation
Witnesses indicated that Soliman began yelling anti-Zionist phrases as he set the scene ablaze, declaring slogans that demonstrated a targeted motive against the gathered individuals. As he ignited flames and threw lit Molotov cocktails into the crowd, the joyful gathering turned upside down, eliciting screams and desperate cries for help. Local authorities have since reported that six victims required urgent medical attention, with at least one individual in **_very serious condition_**.
Community Response and Reactions
The immediate response from local officials has been strong. **_Colorado Governor Jared Polis_** labeled the attack a “heinous act of terror,” underscoring the need for safety and solidarity with the community during such troubling times. As investigations unfold, the FBI has classified this brutal act as *targeted terrorism*, probing into Soliman’s **_mental health_** and his activities online. Interestingly, records show that Soliman had previously applied for asylum in the U.S. but was denied a visa in 2005, raising questions about how he managed to enter the country.
The Bigger Picture
This incident has drawn alarming parallels to other recent violent encounters with the Jewish community, such as the fatal shootings of two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C. just days earlier. The rising tide of antisemitism has prompted organizations including the **_Anti-Defamation League (ADL)_** to advocate for the urgent need to combat the rhetoric that seems to fuel such violence. Community leaders are rallying for immediate accountability and a closer inspection of the factors contributing to these alarming trends.
Reflection Amidst Tragedy
Adding to the somberness of the event, the assault occurred just before the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, a time traditionally reserved for reflection and community gathering. The *organization “Run for Their Lives,”* which organized the peaceful walk to raise awareness for hostages in Gaza, has found itself at the center of this attack, starkly highlighting the peaceful intentions behind their gatherings prior to this tragic occurrence.
Community Support and Safety Measures
As the Boulder community grapples with the aftermath of this eye-opening incident, police and law enforcement officials are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of the affected community. With rising tensions surrounding the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict, residents are seeking not just answers and healing, but a way to foster unity and understanding moving forward. Witnesses described the before and after of the incident as a stark contrast — what was to be a gathering of support turned into a desperate scene where community members and bystanders rushed to extinguish flames and aid the injured.
In light of this horrific event, the resilient Boulder community continues to stand together, navigating these challenging circumstances with compassion and shared strength as they seek to heal from the wounds inflicted by violence.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The New York Times
- Wikipedia: Flamethrower
- USA Today
- Google Search: Boulder Colorado attack
- Haaretz
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Terrorism
- CBS News
- Google News: Boulder Colorado flamethrower attack
