Suspect in Boulder Molotov Cocktail Attack Faces Federal Hate Crime Charges
On Friday, a man accused of injuring multiple people by throwing Molotov cocktails at pro-Israel demonstrators in Boulder appeared in federal court in Denver, where he faced charges related to hate crimes. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, aged 45, is also dealing with additional charges in Colorado, including attempted murder.
Reports indicate that Soliman had prepared 18 Molotov cocktails ahead of a peaceful pro-Israel demonstration on June 1, where attendees were gathering to voice support for Israeli hostages. Allegedly, he hurled two of these incendiary devices into the crowd.
During the court proceedings, Soliman, dressed in a green jumpsuit and handcuffs, was noticeably unsettled, shifting in his chair and scanning the room. When asked if he had read the complaints against him, he affirmed that he had, and requested a court-appointed lawyer.
The court honored his request for legal representation. Prosecutor Melissa Hind emphasized the need for Soliman to remain in custody, to which he did not object. Magistrate Judge Kathryn A. Starnera then ordered him detained until a follow-up hearing scheduled for June 18.
Witnesses remarked that Soliman had thrown what appeared to be glass bottles and had employed a commercial weed sprayer as a makeshift weapon. Authorities later discovered several items, including glass bottles, combustible liquids, rags, and an insecticide sprayer, at the scene, alongside an AR-style BB gun inside his vehicle.
Additionally, Soliman was reported to have left behind an iPhone and a diary at his home in Colorado Springs. These contained references to his motivations and plans for the attack. In conversations with law enforcement, he reportedly expressed no remorse and showed a willingness to repeat his actions should the opportunity arise.
Facing serious charges, including multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder, Soliman’s initial bond was set at $10 million. If convicted and given consecutive sentences, he could potentially serve up to 384 years in prison for these offenses alone. The prosecution also included charges related to the use of incendiary devices that could lead to an additional 48 years.
