Several Injured in Colorado 'Terror Attack': What to Know
By Hollie Silverman
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating a "targeted terror attack" in Boulder, Colorado, according to FBI Director Kash Patel in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
"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," he wrote.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn said during a press conference that the department responded to a call around 1 p.m. local time of a report of a "man with a weapon lighting people on fire."
"This act is unacceptable," Redfearn said, adding that he's not ready to call it a terrorist attack, despite the FBI labeling it so.
A joint statement released by multiple Jewish leaders in the Boulder community sent to Newsweek via email Sunday evening said the demonstrators were attacked with an "incendiary device."
"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," the statement read.
Newsweek has reached out via phone and email Sunday during non-working hours to the Boulder Police Department, the Boulder Fire Department, FBI Denver, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Run for Their Lives, as well as the Colorado Bureau of Investigations and Local ATF for more information.
Why It Matters
The area, known as Pearl Street Mall, attracts visitors and locals with its shops and restaurants. It is also the site of many local performances and demonstrations.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas war was sparked by an October 7, 2023, attack led by Hamas and allied Palestinian factions against Israel, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the abduction of 251. Today, around 58 people, fewer than half of whom are believed to still be alive, remain captive in Gaza. Over 54,000 people have died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-led Palestinian Health Ministry in the war-torn territory amid Israel's subsequent military campaign.
The Run for Their Lives group, which calls for the release of the hostages taken by Hamas, has locations all over the world, including two in Colorado.
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What To Know
A suspect was taken into custody without incident, according to Redfearn, although he did not have further identifying information about the suspect to share.
While they are still collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses, Redfearn did confirm there was a group of people holding a peaceful demonstration in support of freeing Israeli hostages. He said it was too soon to say if they were the targeted group.
Redfearn said he believes there are life threatening injuries, citing that there are a "range of injuries" from minor to more severe.
The chief said he does not have the exact number of injuries at this time, but people have been taken to local hospitals for treatment.
Redfearn said the injuries on the multiple victims are "consistent" with reports that the suspect was setting people on fire.
Authorities haven't specified what the ages of those victims are.
Witnesses on the scene told local television station CBS Denver that a group participating in a Run for Their Lives event, calling for the release of the hostages, was the target of today's actions.
In a picture on the local station's website, a burn scar can be seen outside the local courthouse.
Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, Colorado
Pearl Street Mall is seen in Boulder, Colorado. Getty
What People Are Saying
Colorado Governor Jared Polis wrote in a post on X: "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. 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."
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino wrote on X: "FBI personnel are on the scene in Boulder, Colorado, along with local law enforcement. 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."
Joint statement from Boulder's Jewish community: "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. We don't have all the details of what is unfolding, and we promise to keep our community informed. Our hearts go out to those who witnessed this horrible attack, and prayers for a speedy recovery to those who were injured. We are in touch with law enforcement about our Boulder Jewish community, and safety is our highest priority. We are working closely with SCN, Boulder PD, and the FBI."
They added: "We are grateful for the first responders who are caring for our injured. We will continue to work together to share information and provide support for our community. When events like this enter our own community, we are shaken. Our hope is that we come together for one another. Strength to you all."
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) wrote on X on Sunday: "We are aware of reports of an attack at today's Boulder Run for Their Lives event - a weekly meeting of Jewish community members to run/walk in support of the hostages kidnapped on 10/7. ADL is monitoring the situation in Colorado as we approach the holiday of Shavuot."
Danny Danon, Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, wrote on X: "Terrorism against Jews does not stop at the Gaza border – it is already burning the streets of America. Today, in Boulder, Colorado, Jewish people marched with a moral and humane demand: to return the hostages. In response, the Jewish protesters were brutally attacked, with an attacker throwing a Molotov cocktails at them. Make no mistake – this is not a political protest, this is terrorism. The time for statements is over. It is time for concrete action to be taken against the instigators wherever they may be."
What Happens Next?
Multiple local, state and federal agencies are currently on the scene in Boulder as they investigate the attack.
While the scene is contained, surrounding businesses and streets are blocked off as investigators work to clear the area, Redfearn said.
"This area is not safe yet, we are dealing with a vehicle of interest," he explained, adding that the department would put out on social media when streets reopen so people can get their vehicles.
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