Boulder, Colorado – June 1, 2025. – What was meant to be a peaceful day of solidarity turned into chaos, fear, and flames. An attacker threw several Molotov cocktails at participants of a walk organized by the group Run For Their Lives, an organization advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The incident took place in downtown Boulder, along the Pearl Street Mall pedestrian zone.
The Attack At approximately 1:26 p.m., according to eyewitnesses, a shirtless man approached the demonstration in a hostile manner. Suddenly, he pulled out incendiary devices and threw them at the crowd. Some exploded upon impact with the ground, while others directly hit participants, causing severe burns and a spontaneous stampede. Videos shared on social media and local news show chaotic scenes: flames in the street, people running in panic, and others helping the wounded while emergency crews arrived quickly on the scene.
The Victims Authorities confirmed that at least five people were injured, some with second- and third-degree burns. No fatalities were reported. The wounded were rushed to Boulder Community Health and other nearby medical centers. The suspect was apprehended at the scene by local and federal agents and later taken into medical custody. His identity has not been officially released, though it was confirmed that he acted alone and had a prior history of violent behavior. Official Response The FBI and Boulder Police confirmed that the attack is being investigated as an act of domestic terrorism, with potential political and antisemitic motivation.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser stated that evidence suggests a “premeditated hate crime.” “The attacker had a clear intent to instill fear in a peaceful community. We cannot tolerate hate being expressed through violence.” — Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the attack, stating that “Colorado is a state that values peace, diversity, and coexistence. What happened in Boulder is unacceptable and will be thoroughly investigated.”
Social Impact and Reactions The local community is in shock. Pearl Street Mall, known for its culture, tourism, and family-friendly atmosphere, was cordoned off for several hours. The organizing group, Run For Their Lives, issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to peace and to the victims, urging people not to respond with hate, but with unity. Human rights groups, Jewish communities, and interfaith organizations across the country have expressed solidarity and strongly condemned the attack, calling for increased awareness and action against hate-driven violence.
