Authorities name suspect in ‘terror attack' that left six injured
FBI officials confirmed the suspect was heard shouting 'Free Palestine' during the assault and assured the public that they will "hold the attacker fully accountable"
The FBI has now formerly identified Mohamed Sabry Soliman as the suspect in the horrifying attack in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday afternoon.
The terrifying incident saw six victims — aged between 67 and 88 — rushed to hospital after Soliman used a 'makeshift flamethrower' and hurled 'an incendiary device' into a crowd, according to the FBI.
At a press conference FBI's special agent Mark Michalek confirmed the suspect was heard shouting 'Free Palestine' during the assault. Mr Michalek also confirmed "In the coming days decisions will be made about what charges to file and where, there 's a couple of different options. but what I would stress now is that we are fully united 100% in making sure the charges we bring hold the attacker fully accountable."
The attack targeted participants of Run for Their Lives, an American Jewish group that organises public walks to call for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas. The groups meet once a week for a 1km walk wearing red T-shirts. They also carry national flags of the citizens who are among the hostages still held in Gaza.
Boulder's Jewish community released a joint statement, which reads: "We are saddened and heartbroken to learn that an incendiary device was thrown at walkers at the Run for Their Lives walk on Pearl Street as they were raising awareness for the hostages still held in Gaza.
"Our hearts go out to those who witnessed this horrible attack, and prayers for a speedy recovery to those who were injured. When events like this enter our own community, we are shaken. Our hope is that we come together for one another. Strength to you all."
Of the six victims who were injured in the chaos, on was described as being in a critical condition. The suspect, Soliman, was also injured in the incident.
A significant police and FBI presence remains in place, with local, state and federal agencies actively investigating.
FBI Director Kash Patel referred to the shocking act as a 'targeted terror attack' in a post on X. However, Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn struck a more cautious tone at an earlier press briefing, saying: 'It would be irresponsible for me to speculate on motive this early on.'
In shocking footage taken just moments after the attack the suspect was seen lying face-down on the grass, handcuffed by police without apparent resistance. He reportedly yelled at bystanders before surrendering to armed officers who ordered him to the ground.
Police chief Stephen Redfearn also said he was "fairly confident" that there was "not an additional suspect at large". He said that the police had received reports of "differing descriptions", but after speaking to witnesses, the police believe they have the lone suspect in custody.
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