Judge Allows Colorado Prosecutors to Proceed in Firebomb Attack Case Targeting Pro-Israel Rally

A judge ruled Tuesday that Colorado prosecutors can move forward with their case against Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the man accused of killing one person and injuring over a dozen others during a firebomb attack at a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder on June 1.

Soliman, who appeared in court wearing an orange and white jail uniform, waived his right to a preliminary hearing during which police were expected to present evidence against him. His attorney, Kathryn Herold, informed Judge Nancy W. Salomone of the decision, and Soliman confirmed that he understood the implications after consulting with his legal team.

The move took both prosecutors and victims — some present in court and others watching online — by surprise. With the waiver in place, Judge Salomone scheduled an arraignment for September 9, when Soliman is expected to enter a plea to multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder.

However, Herold signaled the defense would likely seek a postponement, citing the substantial volume of evidence and the recent addition of a murder charge following the death of 82-year-old Karen Diamond, who was critically injured in the attack. She also suggested that a plea agreement might be explored.

20th Judicial District Attorney Michael Dougherty opposed any delay, stating that plea discussions could take place before or after the arraignment. He declined to comment on the possibility of a plea deal after the hearing.

Details of the Attack and Federal Case

Authorities say Soliman, an Egyptian national living illegally in the U.S., arrived at Boulder’s Pearl Street pedestrian mall armed with more than two dozen Molotov cocktails. He allegedly threw only two while shouting “Free Palestine!” and later told police he got scared because he had never harmed anyone before. Around 20 people were gathered for a weekly rally in support of Israeli hostages in Gaza.

Federal prosecutors have charged Soliman with hate crimes, alleging that the victims were targeted because of their perceived or actual connection to Israel. Soliman has pleaded not guilty and is set to face trial in federal court in Denver this September, though his lawyers have indicated they may seek a delay. Additional charges stemming from Diamond’s death could further complicate or delay federal proceedings.

Soliman’s federal defense attorneys argue that his actions were politically — not racially or religiously — motivated, opposing Zionism rather than targeting Jews specifically. They contend that political motivations do not meet the threshold for hate crimes under federal law.

Ongoing Investigation and Charges

State prosecutors have identified 29 victims in the attack — 13 who suffered physical injuries and others who were close enough to have been harmed. A dog was also injured, resulting in an animal cruelty charge against Soliman.

The case continues to unfold across both state and federal courts, as victims and authorities await further developments in what prosecutors have described as a violent and ideologically motivated attack.v