Authorities Detain Family of Colorado Fire Attack Suspect
Federal immigration agents have taken into custody the family of Mohamed Soliman, the man charged in connection with the arson attack on demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado. This action was confirmed by the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, who indicated an ongoing investigation into the family's potential knowledge or support of the crime.
Details of the Boulder Fire Attack
Mohamed Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, allegedly targeted a group peacefully protesting for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The incident occurred on a Sunday, with Soliman reportedly yelling "Free Palestine!" while assaulting the demonstrators using a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails. The attack resulted in eight victims suffering burns severe enough to require hospitalization.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Soliman is currently facing multiple charges, including attempted murder, assault, and possession of an incendiary device under state law. Additionally, federal authorities have charged him with a hate crime, given the targeted nature of the attack based on religion or ethnicity. He is being held on a $10 million bond.
According to court documents, Soliman admitted to plotting the attack for over a year and delayed execution until after his daughter's graduation. Post-arrest statements revealed that he harbored no remorse, allegedly stating that he "wanted them all to die" and would repeat his actions if given the chance.
Immigration Status and Family Investigation
Soliman legally entered the United States in August 2022 on a tourist visa and applied for asylum in September of the same year. Although his visa expired in February 2023, he reportedly has not yet exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the country.
Soliman's family, which includes his spouse and five children residing in Colorado Springs, has been placed in ICE custody as part of the investigation into their possible complicity. Secretary Noem emphasized that justice will be pursued fully and prayers remain with the victims and their families.
Summary of Key Facts
- Suspect: Mohamed Soliman, 45-year-old Egyptian national
- Incident: Fire attack on demonstrators in Boulder advocating for Israeli hostages
- Injuries: Eight people hospitalized with burns
- Charges: Attempted murder, assault, possession of incendiary device, federal hate crime charges
- Bail: $10 million bond
- Immigration Status: Entered legally August 2022, visa expired February 2023, asylum applicant
- Family: Wife and five children taken into ICE custody
