A violent attack during a peaceful pro-Israel demonstration at the Pearl Street Mall has left multiple individuals injured and is now being investigated as a targeted act of terrorism, authorities confirmed Sunday.
The incident occurred just before 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of 13th Street and Pearl Street, a busy commercial and pedestrian area in downtown Boulder. Police responded to emergency calls reporting a man with a weapon attacking demonstrators and allegedly setting people on fire.
Upon arrival, officers found several victims suffering from burn injuries. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene in which a suspect approached the group and used an incendiary device or flammable substance to ignite fires. Emergency medical personnel treated victims on-site, and several were transported to local hospitals. The number and severity of injuries have not yet been officially confirmed.
Police quickly apprehended a suspect at the scene. His identity has not yet been released, and investigators have not disclosed a possible motive, though federal officials say the nature of the attack appeared deliberate.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the federal agency is treating the assault as a “targeted terror attack.” “Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” Patel stated.
The area surrounding Pearl Street Mall was cordoned off as law enforcement conducted interviews, collected evidence, and searched for any potential accomplices or additional threats.
City officials and community leaders have expressed shock and concern over the incident, calling for calm as the investigation continues. Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage of the attack to come forward.
Further details are expected as investigators continue to gather evidence and assess the full scope of the attack.
