A terrifying incident took place in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday afternoon when an individual allegedly attacked a peaceful demonstration on Pearl Street. Among the brave individuals who rushed to help was Naor Bitton, an Israeli man who was vacationing in the area. Bitton’s quick thinking and military training helped save lives as he worked tirelessly to aid those injured in the attack.
The Attack on Pearl Street
On Sunday, a demonstration for the release of hostages in Gaza took place on Boulder’s Pearl Street. The protest featured American and Israeli flags, as well as a message calling for the safe return of hostages. What began as a peaceful march quickly turned into a horrifying scene when Mohamed Sabry Soliman, disguised as a gardener, allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at the participants. Authorities say Soliman tried to get closer to the group before launching his attack.
Bitton’s Heroic Actions
Naor Bitton, who was vacationing in Boulder at the time, had no idea he would soon be caught up in a life-or-death situation. As he walked along Pearl Street, he noticed the demonstration and decided to join in. Bitton was moved by the message of the group and was speaking with the demonstrators when the Molotov cocktails were thrown.
Suddenly, Bitton felt a blast of heat to his left and saw a ball of flames. Several people in the crowd were caught in the fire, and some were severely injured. Bitton recalls seeing people burning alive, with flames consuming their bodies. He immediately sprang into action, yelling for others to call 911 and running to find water to douse the flames. His military training kicked in, and he positioned himself in front of the crowd to protect them from the attacker while waiting for first responders.
A Community Response
In the chaos that followed, Bitton wasn’t the only one helping. Several other witnesses rushed to aid the injured, including one person who tried to put out the flames on a woman’s body by using clothes. Despite the chaos, Bitton remembers that everyone who could help did so without hesitation. He believes that anyone in his position would have done the same thing and is grateful that he was able to help save lives.
Bitton’s Reflection
Looking back on the incident, Bitton expressed his gratitude for being able to help. While the attack was shocking and tragic, he feels no regret for being there to assist. Bitton believes that if he hadn’t been present, he would have felt a deep sense of regret for not being able to help. For him, the chance to make a difference in a life-or-death situation was a responsibility he gladly took on.
The attack on Pearl Street in Boulder serves as a reminder of the dangers that can occur during even peaceful demonstrations. However, it also highlights the importance of quick thinking and community action in times of crisis. Naor Bitton’s heroic efforts saved lives, and his actions are a testament to the power of bravery and compassion in the face of danger.