Terror Strikes Peaceful Hostage Awareness Walk in Boulder: FBI Investigating as “Targeted Attack”
What began as a routine, peaceful march in downtown Boulder to raise awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza turned into a scene of chaos and horror Sunday afternoon, when a man reportedly hurled Molotov cocktails into a crowd of demonstrators. Multiple participants were severely burned, and authorities are now investigating the assault as a terrorist act.
Molotov Attack at Pearl Street Mall Injures Multiple Activists
The incident occurred during a regularly scheduled “Run for Their Lives” march near the intersection of 13th and Pearl Streets, a bustling pedestrian zone in Boulder’s downtown district. The group has gathered weekly since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, advocating for the release of hostages still believed to be held in Gaza.
According to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn, the suspect—who has not yet been named—used a homemade incendiary device to ignite victims during the march. Several participants were hospitalized with serious injuries, and one individual remains in critical condition. The suspect was also injured during the attack and was apprehended at the scene by police.
“We believe this was a deliberate act of violence,” Redfearn told reporters at a press briefing. “The scene is still active, and we are working with federal partners to secure the area and determine motive.”
FBI: “Targeted Terror Attack” Against Pro-Israel Demonstrators
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the case and is treating the event as a “targeted terror attack,” according to an agency spokesperson. FBI agents were on the ground within hours of the incident and are assisting in the ongoing investigation, including searching a vehicle believed to be connected to the suspect.
While officials have not confirmed the attacker’s ideology, sources close to the investigation told CBS News that the motive appears politically and ideologically motivated, given the nature of the march.
“The area is not safe yet,” Redfearn added, noting that explosive ordinance teams were still sweeping the scene late Sunday evening.
Colorado Leaders Condemn “Hate-Fueled” Assault
Colorado Governor Jared Polis swiftly condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly and hate-fueled act of terror.”
“Violence targeting peaceful demonstrators in our state will not be tolerated,” Polis said in a statement. “I’ve directed state resources to support Boulder Police and the FBI in their full investigation.”
Local Jewish leaders in Boulder issued statements expressing both heartbreak and outrage, stating that the “Run for Their Lives” event was never political, but rather a humanitarian effort to keep hostages’ names and stories in public consciousness.
“The fact that innocent people were set on fire while standing in solidarity with victims of terrorism is a cruel irony—and a sobering reminder of the hatred we continue to confront,” said Rabbi Shoshana Segal of the Boulder Jewish Community Center.
Public Safety Measures and Investigation Continue
In the wake of the attack, the city of Boulder has increased police presence across public spaces, particularly near houses of worship and cultural centers. Officials have asked the public to avoid the Pearl Street Mall area until further notice.
As of Sunday night, authorities had not confirmed how many people were injured or the full extent of the damages, but hospital sources told CBS affiliate KCNC-TV that at least five individuals sustained serious burns requiring surgery.
The investigation remains active, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with video or firsthand accounts to contact the Boulder Police Department immediately.
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