Boulder Molotov cocktail attack suspect appears in court on hate crime charge
Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the suspect accused of injuring over a dozen people by throwing Molotov cocktails into a crowd of peaceful pro-Israel demonstrators, appeared in federal court in Denver to face a federal hate crime charge. Along with the hate crime charge, Soliman faces additional charges in Colorado, including attempted murder.
Soliman allegedly prepared 18 Molotov cocktails before driving to Boulder on June 1 and targeting the peaceful pro-Israel demonstrators participating in the “Run For Their Lives” event in support of Israeli hostages. He is accused of throwing two incendiary devices at the crowd.
In court, Soliman appeared wearing a green jumpsuit and handcuffs. He silently rocked in his chair while waiting for the hearing to start. During the proceedings, he confirmed that he had read the complaint filed against him and requested a court-appointed attorney, which was granted.
Prosecutor Melissa Hindman requested that Soliman be detained, a request that the defendant did not contest. Magistrate Judge Kathryn A. Starnella ordered Soliman to be detained and set the next court date for June 18.
Witnesses observed Soliman throwing glass bottles that burst into flames upon impact, as well as using a weed sprayer as a makeshift blowtorch. Authorities found multiple glass bottles containing liquid, a lighter, rags, an insecticide sprayer, and an AR-style rifle BB gun in Soliman’s vehicle. Additionally, a Quran and paperwork mentioning “Israel,” “Palestine,” and “USAID” were discovered.
In an interview with law enforcement, Soliman expressed no remorse for his actions and stated his intent to carry out similar attacks if given the opportunity again. A journal found at his Colorado Springs home detailed his motivations and preparations for the attack.
Soliman faces a myriad of charges, including attempted first-degree murder, first-degree assault, and possession of incendiary devices. If convicted and sentenced consecutively, he could face up to 384 years in state prison. He was also charged with two counts of using an incendiary device, which could add an additional 48 years if served consecutively.
It is clear that the suspect’s actions were premeditated and carried out with malicious intent. The consequences of his actions have left a lasting impact on the victims and the community as a whole. The judicial system will ensure that justice is served in this case.
Fox News reporters Alexandra Rego and Sarah Rumpf-Whitten contributed to this report. Greg Wehner, a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital, can be reached at Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.
