Concerns Raised Over Visa Overstay as Boulder Attack Suspect is Identified

A recent incident in Boulder, Colorado, has brought attention to the significant issue of individuals overstaying their visas in the United States. Following a terror attack that injured 15 people, former FBI agent Gilliam emphasized that these overstays pose a serious national security risk. The suspect in the attack, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, came to the U.S. on a B1/B2 non-immigrant visa that was set to expire in February 2023, just months before the incident.

According to sources, Soliman, an Egyptian national, received work authorization that extended until March 2025. Reports from the Department of Homeland Security reveal that approximately 400,000 people are suspected of having overstayed their visas in fiscal year 2023 alone, contributing to a troubling trend where over 1.5 million individuals have overstayed from 2020 to 2023. Gilliam pointed out that such a situation could lead to further attacks if reforms in visa monitoring are not implemented quickly.

The call for reform centers on improved tracking of individuals who enter the U.S. on visas. Gilliam argued that monitoring systems should be in place for real-time tracking of visa holders, which would better ensure public safety. Current procedures for keeping tabs on these individuals appear to be inadequate and could enable those with radical views to slip through the cracks.

While in the U.S., Soliman was employed at Vero Health and later with Uber. Both companies acknowledged he had a valid work visa during his employment. Following the firebombing incident, Soliman faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and the use of explosives in a felony. The case underscores the need for stronger measures to manage visa overstayers and enhance national security.