Boulder Police Chief Provides Update on Alleged Terror Attack

Incident Overview

• 🚨 A man allegedly set people on fire in downtown Boulder, Colorado, at approximately 1:26 p.m. today.
• 💬 The initial calls to dispatch reported a man with a weapon and people being set on fire.
• 🚓 Officers responded quickly, encountering multiple victims with injuries consistent with burns and other trauma.

Suspect Apprehension and Investigation

• 🏃 A suspect was identified and taken into custody without incident by responding officers.
• 🏥 The suspect was transported to the hospital with minor injuries; identification is pending further investigation.
• 🚧 A large area in downtown Boulder has been cordoned off, with businesses closed, and the public is advised to avoid the scene as it is not yet safe.
• 🚗 Authorities are investigating a vehicle of interest and working to secure the scene before allowing public access.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety

• 🤝 State, local, and federal partners are collaborating at a command post to investigate the incident.
• 🗣️ Police Chief Steve Redfearn urged patience and asked the public to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts.
• ❓ The investigation is complex, and officials are working to determine the exact sequence of events and the nature of the injuries.

Response to Terror Attack Label

• 🧐 While the FBI has labeled the incident a terror attack, the Boulder Police Department is not yet making that designation, citing the early stage of the investigation and the need to avoid speculation on motive.
• 💬 Investigators are interviewing numerous witnesses to gather more clarity on the events and potential motives.

Victim Information and Security Concerns

• 🤕 Multiple victims sustained injuries, with some transferred to other hospitals; the exact number and severity are still being determined.
• 🙏 The Chief expressed that some injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
• 🔒 In response to questions about security for specific groups, officials stated that if a clear motive targeting a specific group is established, additional security measures will be implemented to ensure public safety.
• 📢 Another update is expected later this evening and will be live-streamed.