FBI investigates 'terror attack' in Colorado, US as eight people set on fire
The shirtless man suspected of attacking multiple people with incendiary devices, yells: 'End Zionists,' 'Palestine is Free!' and 'They are killers!'
Eight people in Boulder, Colorado, have been injured in what the FBI are investigating as terrorism, after reports that a man attacked them with a 'makeshift flamethrower' and Molotov cocktails.
Boulder Police said the suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, was taken into custody in connection with the attack on Sunday.
Officials said the group that was attacked had gathered to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza.
Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn, told reporters on Sunday evening it was too early to discuss a motive but witnesses were being interviewed.
He said victims had 'injuries consistent with burns, and other injuries.'
Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn says they encountered 'multiple victims' when they arrived at the scene
The attack unfolded against the backdrop of a war between Israel and Hamas that continues to inflame global tensions and has contributed to a spike in antisemitic violence in the United States.
Just over a week ago a man who also yelled 'Free Palestine' was charged with fatally shooting two Israeli embassy staffers outside of a Jewish museum in Washington.
FBI Director Kash Patel said in a post on X: 'We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available.'
'Sadly, attacks like this are becoming too common across the country,' said Mark Michalek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Denver field office, which encompasses Boulder.
'This is an example of how perpetrators of violence continue to threaten communities across the nation.'
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement Monday saying he, his wife and the entire nation of Israel were praying for the full recovery of the people wounded in the 'vicious terror attack' in Colorado.
Authorities did not disclose details about Soliman but said they believe that he acted alone and that no other suspect was being sought. No criminal charges were immediately announced but officials said they would move to hold Soliman accountable. He was also injured and was taken to the hospital to be treated, but authorities didn't elaborate on the nature of his injuries.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis said in a statement he was 'closely monitoring' the situation, adding that 'hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable.'
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