Multiple people were injured Sunday in a firebombing attack at an event in Boulder, Colorado, meant to show support for hostages kidnaped by Hamas in the October 7, 2023, assault on Israel, officials said.
In a press conference, Boulder Police Chief Steven Redfearn said officers arrived on the scene in response to reports of people being set on fire before 2 p.m. local time and found victims with “injuries consistent with burns and other injuries.” They were sent to the hospital, he said.
An adult male suspect was detained and also taken to a hospital with minor injuries, Redfearn said.
Officials are investigating the attack. Redfearn noted that he could not ID the suspect right away.
“This act is unacceptable,” Redfearn said.
Earlier, on X, the Boulder Police Department said it was responding to a “report of an attack” at 13th and Pearl Streets with “reports of several victims.” Police established an evacuation area and advised people to steer clear.
The FBI also responded.
“We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.
Redfearn said he could not immediately confirm a motive, but did acknowledge that a “peaceful demonstration” by a pro-Israel group was going on at the scene in a busy area.
Video posted to social media appeared to show smoke rising out of a park where some people were screaming and lying on the ground.
“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,” said a statement from Boulder’s Jewish Community.
There were unconfirmed images posted to social media showing a shirtless man, apparently the suspect, holding what appeared to be molotov cocktails. One video showed the man shouting “end Zionists” and other things.
“FBI personnel are on the scene in Boulder, Colorado, along with local law enforcement,” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said on X. “We are investigating this incident as an act of terror, and targeted violence. All of the necessary assets will be dedicated to this investigation. If you have any investigative tips please contact the FBI. And if you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide.”
Among the others who commented on the attack was Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat.
“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,” Polis said in a post on X. “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. While details emerge, the state works with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation. More information will be provided as it becomes available.”
