Prosecutors say Mohamed Sabry Soliman targeted a pro-Israel demonstration in downtown Boulder, allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails and attempting to kill dozens.
BOULDER, CO — Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 46-year-old Egyptian national who authorities say is in the U.S. illegally, was indicted last week on 12 federal hate crime charges stemming from a June 1 attack in downtown Boulder.
Prosecutors allege Soliman tried to kill participants and bystanders at a weekly demonstration on Pearl Street calling for the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. According to investigators, he threw Molotov cocktails—glass bottles filled with flammable liquid—at the crowd while shouting, “Free Palestine.”
Soliman allegedly told investigators he intended to kill roughly 20 people and had attempted to purchase a gun but was unable to do so because of his immigration status.
In state court filings Monday, the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office said the charges were being expanded after the death of a victim identified as karen Diamond. Prosecutors upgraded two counts to first-degree murder and added 66 new charges as more victims were identified, bringing the total to 29.
Among the updated charges:
- 2 counts of first-degree murder
- 52 counts of attempted first-degree murder
- 8 counts of first-degree assault
- 18 counts of attempted first-degree assault
- 2 counts of third-degree assault
- 2 counts of using an incendiary device
- 16 counts of attempted use of an incendiary device
- 1 count of animal cruelty
Of the 29 victims, 13 suffered physical injuries during the attack.
Soliman’s attorney, David Kraut, entered a not guilty plea on his behalf during a hearing Friday. The public defenders representing Soliman declined to comment to media outlets.
“This horrific attack has now claimed the life of an innocent person who was beloved by her family and friends,” Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty said in a statement. “Our hearts are with the Diamond family during this incredibly difficult time. Our office will fight for justice for the victims, their loved ones, and the community.”
The investigation is being conducted with assistance from the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the Boulder Police Department.
