On Sunday, a terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, injured 12 people in an assault targeting a pro-Israel group. The attack took place at Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, where the group holds weekly walks advocating for the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas. The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, used Molotov cocktails during the attack and shouted anti-Israel statements, injuring several victims, some seriously.
Governor Jared Polis, who calls Boulder his hometown and is Jewish, strongly condemned the attack. While attending a bill signing event in Denver on Monday, he expressed deep concern and said these antisemitic acts have no place in Colorado or the United States. Polis shared that he spoke with one of the victims and wished all those hurt a quick recovery. Three victims remained hospitalized with severe burns.
The Governor’s Strong Response to Hate and Violence
Polis emphasized that people should feel safe in their houses of worship and when exercising free speech in public places like Pearl Street Mall or Denver’s 16th Street Mall. He described the attack as a “heinous and targeted act on the Jewish community,” especially painful as it came just before the Jewish holiday of Shavuot and following other antisemitic murders in Washington, D.C.
He highlighted the peaceful nature of the group’s protest, which was focused on drawing attention to the 604 days since Hamas took hostages in Gaza. The governor said hate has no place in Colorado and called for the suspect to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Details on the Suspect and Legal Actions
Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the suspect, is expected to be formally charged later this week. The attack has shocked the community and led to widespread calls for justice and stronger protections against hate crimes.
On the same day as the attack’s condemnation, Governor Polis signed bills aimed at improving public safety. These laws focus on reducing gun theft and increasing penalties for those who steal firearms, showing the state’s commitment to fighting violence and crime.
The Boulder terror attack has deeply affected both the local community and the state of Colorado. Governor Jared Polis’s response highlights the importance of standing against hate and ensuring safety for all residents, especially those exercising their right to peaceful protest and free speech. This tragic event has renewed focus on protecting communities from antisemitism and violence. The swift legal response and new laws on gun safety demonstrate Colorado’s commitment to preventing such attacks in the future and supporting victims.