On a crisp Sunday afternoon in Boulder, Colorado, a peaceful solidarity walk turned into a scene of chaos and fear when a violent attack unfolded at the bustling Pearl Street Mall, leaving multiple people injured and a community shaken. The assault, which occurred near the intersection of 13th and Pearl Streets, targeted participants in a non-political demonstration organized by Run For Their Lives, a group dedicated to raising awareness for Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. The event, which began at 1:00 p.m. at Pearl and 8th Streets, was meant to be a silent show of support, with participants pausing at the historic Boulder County Courthouse to record a brief video. But the tranquility was shattered when a suspect, allegedly wielding Molotov cocktails, attacked the group, sparking panic and prompting a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as flames erupted near the courthouse, leaving a stark burn scar on the pavement. Video footage captured the aftermath, showing emergency responders loading at least one injured individual onto a stretcher while police detained a shirtless man believed to be the attacker. The Boulder Police Department, acting quickly, evacuated the 1200, 1300, and 1400 blocks of Pearl Street between Walnut and Pine Streets by 3:08 p.m., urging the public to avoid the area as they worked to secure the scene. The popular pedestrian mall, known for its vibrant shops, restaurants, and street performances, became an eerie tableau of flashing lights and cordoned-off streets as investigators descended.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has taken a leading role in the case, classifying the incident as a potential act of terrorism. FBI Director Kash Patel issued a statement confirming the agency’s involvement, saying, “We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents are working closely with local law enforcement, and we will provide updates as the investigation progresses.” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino reinforced this commitment, noting that federal agents were on the scene by mid-afternoon, collaborating with Boulder police to determine the circumstances of the attack. While the exact number of victims and the extent of their injuries remain unconfirmed, the incident has raised alarm due to its apparent targeting of a group advocating for a humanitarian cause.
The solidarity walk, organized by Run For Their Lives, was described by the group as a peaceful effort to show support for the hostages and their families, explicitly not a protest but a plea for their release. The group, which has held similar walks in Boulder since November 2023, aimed to foster unity and compassion. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis addressing the incident, stating, “I am closely monitoring the situation in Boulder, and my thoughts go out to the people who have been injured and impacted by this heinous act of terror. Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable.” The Anti-Defamation League also expressed concern, noting the timing of the attack as the Jewish community approached the holiday of Shavuot.
As investigators work to uncover the motive behind the attack, the community of Boulder grapples with the shock of violence in a place typically associated with vibrancy and togetherness. The detained suspect’s identity has not been released, and authorities have yet to confirm details about the Molotov cocktails or the precise nature of the injuries sustained. A press conference, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at 15th and Walnut Streets, is expected to provide further clarity. For now, the Pearl Street Mall remains closed off, a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in even the most cherished public spaces. Authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to steer clear as the investigation unfolds, with more details promised as they become available.
