A man accused of attacking a Colorado march intended to raise awareness about hostages held in Gaza was formally charged in state court Thursday with multiple serious offenses, including 28 counts of attempted murder.
Mohamed Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, could face more than 600 years in prison if convicted on all state charges. He also faces federal hate crime charges that could result in a life sentence.
The attack occurred during a peaceful walk organized by “Run for Their Lives,” a global group dedicated to spotlighting hostages taken during Hamas’ 2023 attack on Israel. Prosecutors allege that Soliman hurled Molotov cocktails at participants and shouted “Free Palestine.” The incident injured 10 of the 15 victims, who ranged in age from 25 to 88. Three remain hospitalized.
Soliman appeared in Boulder County court on Thursday wearing an orange jail uniform, shackled and behind thick glass. He acknowledged the judge’s questions with nods but did not speak or enter a plea. His next hearing is scheduled for July 15.
Authorities have filed a total of 118 state charges against Soliman, including assault, use of incendiary devices, and animal cruelty, after a dog was injured in the attack.
Federal officials said Soliman entered the US on a tourist visa in 2022 and overstayed it. His work permit has expired, making his presence in the country unlawful. His wife and five children were taken into custody earlier this week, though a federal judge has temporarily blocked their deportation.
The attack has rattled Jewish communities amid heightened tensions surrounding the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. It follows another recent violent incident in which two Israeli embassy staff members were shot outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C.
Despite the violence, the movement targeted in the attack has vowed to continue. Shira Weiss, global coordinator for Run for Their Lives, said the group was stunned by the violence but is more determined than ever.
Though she initially advised chapters to pause their weekly walks, most chose to proceed. Around 80 per cent of chapters will hold events this weekend, including in Boulder, where the attack occurred.
Sunday’s walk in Boulder will coincide with the city’s 30th annual Jewish Festival, which will feature heightened security and spotlight the Run for Their Lives group. Interest in the organization has surged since the attack, with 20 new chapter inquiries and a growing number of participants.
Maya Bajayo, who leads the Denver chapter, said all 50 of its members plan to join Sunday’s walk in Boulder in a show of solidarity.
