A terrifying attack in Boulder leaves community shaken—what we know so far
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Disclaimer: This is a developing story. Details may change as more information becomes available—keep an eye out for updates from official sources.
A peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, turned tragic over the weekend when an assailant allegedly threw an incendiary device at a group of marchers, injuring several and leaving the community stunned.
While authorities have not confirmed a motive, federal officials are treating the incident as a targeted terror attack.
The GrayVine is here to help our readers understand what happened, why it matters, and how we can stay safe—and connected—in difficult times.
The attack took place around 1 p.m. local time on Sunday at Pearl Street Mall, a popular pedestrian zone known for its small businesses, family-friendly vibe, and frequent community events.
According to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn, officers responded to reports of “a man with a weapon lighting people on fire.”
“This act is unacceptable,” Redfearn said at a press conference, noting that while the FBI has labeled the incident a terror attack, he’s still cautious about officially using that term: “We’re not ready to call it a terrorist attack yet.”
The suspect was taken into custody without further incident, but the injuries are believed to range from minor to life-threatening.
Redfearn confirmed that people had been hospitalized, and that their injuries were “consistent with being set on fire.”
A peaceful walk disrupted by violence
The victims were participating in a “Run for Their Lives” event, part of a global movement that advocates for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel.
Eyewitnesses told CBS Denver that walkers were targeted as they moved through Pearl Street.
In a joint statement, Jewish community leaders in Boulder wrote: “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… 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.”
Also read: Troubling signs out West—Could your water supply be at risk? Two lakes remain dangerously low at just 35% full.
National response and rising concerns
The incident has drawn responses from officials at all levels.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the act as a “heinous act of terror,” adding: “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. The state is working with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation.”
The FBI’s Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated: “We are investigating this incident as an act of terror and targeted violence… If you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide.”
Danny Danon, Israel’s representative to the UN, said the attack demonstrates that violence against Jews “is already burning the streets of America.”
Also read: India–Pakistan tensions escalate after Kashmir attack: Fears of nuclear conflict resurface
A broader backdrop: global conflict, local fear
While the full motive remains unclear, the attack took place amid ongoing tension surrounding the Israel–Hamas conflict, which began with the October 7 assault that killed 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages.
Today, just under 60 remain unaccounted for, and most are feared dead.
According to the Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry, over 54,000 people in Gaza have been killed since Israel’s military response began.
This violent act on US soil has left many seniors—particularly those active in their communities or involved in advocacy—deeply unsettled.
For decades, American seniors have gathered, marched, and spoken out for causes close to their hearts.
This incident is a stark reminder that safety in public spaces cannot be taken for granted.
Also read: Trump administration shakes up international institutions with surprise decisions–What happens next?
What happens now
Local, state, and federal investigators continue to gather evidence.
Surrounding businesses and streets remain blocked off, and Chief Redfearn confirmed authorities are also examining a vehicle of interest.
“This area is not safe yet,” he told reporters.
“We’ll let the public know via social media when it’s clear to return.”
Authorities have not released the names or ages of those injured.
Read next: Billions paused: Inside the growing standoff between Harvard and the federal government
How are you feeling in the wake of this attack? Have you taken steps to stay safe at public events or witnessed acts of resilience that offer hope? Share your stories and reflections below—let’s keep the conversation going and stand strong together!
A peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, turned tragic over the weekend when an assailant allegedly threw an incendiary device at a group of marchers, injuring several and leaving the community stunned.
While authorities have not confirmed a motive, federal officials are treating the incident as a targeted terror attack.
The GrayVine is here to help our readers understand what happened, why it matters, and how we can stay safe—and connected—in difficult times.
The attack took place around 1 p.m. local time on Sunday at Pearl Street Mall, a popular pedestrian zone known for its small businesses, family-friendly vibe, and frequent community events.
According to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn, officers responded to reports of “a man with a weapon lighting people on fire.”
“This act is unacceptable,” Redfearn said at a press conference, noting that while the FBI has labeled the incident a terror attack, he’s still cautious about officially using that term: “We’re not ready to call it a terrorist attack yet.”
Emergency responders and investigators gather at Pearl Street Mall following the suspected terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Image Source: YouTube /
CBS New York.
CBS New York.
The suspect was taken into custody without further incident, but the injuries are believed to range from minor to life-threatening.
Redfearn confirmed that people had been hospitalized, and that their injuries were “consistent with being set on fire.”
A peaceful walk disrupted by violence
The victims were participating in a “Run for Their Lives” event, part of a global movement that advocates for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel.
Eyewitnesses told CBS Denver that walkers were targeted as they moved through Pearl Street.
In a joint statement, Jewish community leaders in Boulder wrote: “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… 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.”
Also read: Troubling signs out West—Could your water supply be at risk? Two lakes remain dangerously low at just 35% full.
National response and rising concerns
The incident has drawn responses from officials at all levels.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the act as a “heinous act of terror,” adding: “Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. The state is working with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation.”
The FBI’s Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated: “We are investigating this incident as an act of terror and targeted violence… If you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide.”
Danny Danon, Israel’s representative to the UN, said the attack demonstrates that violence against Jews “is already burning the streets of America.”
Also read: India–Pakistan tensions escalate after Kashmir attack: Fears of nuclear conflict resurface
A broader backdrop: global conflict, local fear
While the full motive remains unclear, the attack took place amid ongoing tension surrounding the Israel–Hamas conflict, which began with the October 7 assault that killed 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages.
Today, just under 60 remain unaccounted for, and most are feared dead.
According to the Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry, over 54,000 people in Gaza have been killed since Israel’s military response began.
This violent act on US soil has left many seniors—particularly those active in their communities or involved in advocacy—deeply unsettled.
For decades, American seniors have gathered, marched, and spoken out for causes close to their hearts.
This incident is a stark reminder that safety in public spaces cannot be taken for granted.
Also read: Trump administration shakes up international institutions with surprise decisions–What happens next?
What happens now
Local, state, and federal investigators continue to gather evidence.
Surrounding businesses and streets remain blocked off, and Chief Redfearn confirmed authorities are also examining a vehicle of interest.
“This area is not safe yet,” he told reporters.
“We’ll let the public know via social media when it’s clear to return.”
Authorities have not released the names or ages of those injured.
Read next: Billions paused: Inside the growing standoff between Harvard and the federal government
How are you feeling in the wake of this attack? Have you taken steps to stay safe at public events or witnessed acts of resilience that offer hope? Share your stories and reflections below—let’s keep the conversation going and stand strong together!
