Colorado Man Charged with Federal Hate Crime for Molotov Cocktail Attack on Peaceful Demonstration

Federal Hate Crime Charges Filed

• 🎯 Acting U.S. Attorney Bishop Gruell announced federal hate crime and attempted murder charges against Mohamed Soliman, 45, for a Molotov cocktail attack on a peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado.
• ⚡ The attack, which occurred on June 2, injured at least 12 people, some in their late 80s, who were walking to raise awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
• ⚠️ Soliman allegedly stated he wanted all the victims to die, had no regrets, and would repeat the act, according to authorities.

Suspect's Motives and Planning

• 🗓️ Authorities allege Soliman had been planning the assault for a year.
• 🔫 He reportedly attempted to purchase a firearm but resorted to Molotov cocktails because he could not buy a gun due to his immigration status.
• 💥 16 unused Molotov cocktails were recovered at the scene by law enforcement.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

• ⚖️ Soliman faces a statutory maximum federal sentence of life in prison for the hate crime offense, which includes attempted murder.
• 🤝 The U.S. Attorney's Office will prosecute the hate crime, while the Boulder County DA's office will handle attempted murder and related state charges, reflecting a joint federal and state approach.
• 💰 A $10 million cash-only bond was set for the state charges.

Community Impact and Response

• 💔 The attack has left the Boulder community and others nationwide feeling unsafe, prompting expressions of heartbreak and support for victims from officials.
• 🤝 Officials emphasized unity in condemning acts of anti-Semitism, hate, and violence, and pledged to pursue justice for the victims.
• 👏 The rapid response of first responders, citizens, and law enforcement was credited with ending the attack and tending to the injured.

Victim Count and Ongoing Investigation

• 👥 Initially eight victims were identified, but through ongoing investigation, the total number of victims has risen to 12.
• 🔍 Authorities encourage any additional victims or witnesses to come forward and contact law enforcement.
• ⚖️ Formal charges reflecting the 12 victims will be filed by the district attorney's office later this week.