****

Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty addressed the press outside the Boulder County Justice Center following a court appearance by Mohammed Soliman, the accused in Sunday’s terrorist attack at the Pearl Street Mall. Dougherty’s office filed 118 charges against Soliman, who allegedly injured 15 individuals during the firebombing incident that targeted a weekly "Run For Their Lives" demonstration. The charges span attempted first-degree murder, assault, use of an incendiary device, and crimes of violence, among others.

Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, will be defended by Kathryn Herold from the Colorado Public Defender's Office. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 15, 2025. The charges against Soliman are severe, with each count of attempted murder carrying a potential sentence of up to 48 years in prison.

The attack involved makeshift flamethrowers and incendiary devices, which Soliman reportedly planned to use against what he labeled as "Zionist" groups. The assault left 15 people injured, three of whom remain hospitalized, and also resulted in injuries to one dog. Victims range in age from 25 to 88, and include eight females and seven males.

Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn commended the rapid response by law enforcement, noting that Soliman was apprehended within six minutes of the attack report. The involvement of paramedic-equipped fire units was crucial in providing immediate aid to the victims.

Dougherty emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, appealing to witnesses or victims who have not yet come forward to contact the authorities. He assured the community that his office is committed to prosecuting Soliman fully and indicated that additional federal hate crime charges might be forthcoming, given that the weapons used in the attack involved interstate elements.

The District Attorney also clarified that while the deportation of Soliman’s family, currently detained by ICE, had been halted by a judge, his office was not participating in those deportation proceedings.

As the community grapples with the fallout from the attack, Dougherty pledged unwavering support for the victims and reiterated a collective stand against hate and terrorism. The Boulder Police will maintain a heightened presence to ensure the safety of future community events, particularly the large gathering scheduled downtown on Sunday.