Boulder Pearl Street Mall Attack Declared “Targeted Terror”: One Suspect Arrested, FBI Investigates Pro-Israel Rally Assault

Boulder, Colorado — A pro-Israel demonstration at Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall turned violent Sunday afternoon when a suspect launched a Molotov cocktail into a peaceful rally, injuring multiple participants and prompting a full-scale federal terror investigation.

The assault occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. local time on June 1, 2025, during a walk organized by Run for Their Lives, a group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Witnesses described a shirtless male throwing incendiary devices at demonstrators, igniting panic and fire.

At least six individuals sustained burn injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Emergency crews transported victims to area hospitals as local police evacuated the mall and secured the surrounding area.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the agency is investigating the attack as a “targeted terror attack.” In a statement posted to X, he said: @FBI agents and local law enforcement are already on the scene and fully engaged.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino added that the attack is being treated as “ideologically motivated violence,” based on witness accounts and early evidence. He emphasized: “If you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide.”
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Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn confirmed that the incident occurred at 13th and Pearl Street and involved a deliberate act of violence during a scheduled demonstration. In an official post, the department stated that further updates would be provided as the investigation develops.
[Watch Chief Redfearn’s press conference ]

Redfearn previously stated that it was “too early to confirm motive” but acknowledged the intentional nature of the assault. The suspect was arrested at the scene and is currently being questioned by authorities, including federal agents.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser confirmed that hate crime charges are under review, stating that any attack on a group based on religious or ethnic identity would be prosecuted aggressively.

What’s Next

FBI and Boulder officials are expected to deliver a joint press conference on Monday. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately.

This is a developing story. Virginia Times will provide real-time updates as more details emerge.

(with inputs from federal officials, local police, eyewitness accounts, and social media updates)