Colorado prosecutors have increased the charges against the suspect in the Boulder attack following the death of an 82-year-old woman who was injured in the June 1 incident. The woman, identified as Karen Diamond, succumbed to severe injuries sustained in the attack.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his devastation at Diamond's passing, offering condolences to her family and the Boulder community. He emphasized the loss felt by the state, particularly within the Jewish community, and acknowledged Diamond's impact on those who knew her.
Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old from Egypt, was previously indicted on federal hate crime charges related to the attack. He is accused of attempting to kill eight people by throwing Molotov cocktails and targeting others nearby. Soliman's attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
Investigators reported that Soliman stated his intention to kill the participants at a weekly demonstration on Boulder's Pearl Street, which was calling for the release of Israeli hostages. He allegedly threw two Molotov cocktails while shouting "Free Palestine." Soliman also reportedly attempted to purchase a gun but was unable to due to his immigration status.
The Boulder County District Attorney's Office is upgrading charges to first-degree murder in connection with Diamond's death. Additionally, 66 new charges have been added after more victims were identified. The amended complaint now includes a total of 29 victims, with 13 suffering physical injuries. The charges include first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, first-degree assault, attempted first-degree assault, third-degree assault, use of an incendiary device, attempted use of an incendiary device, and animal cruelty.
The district attorney's office stated that the additional charges were filed in consultation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the Boulder Police Department. District Attorney Michael Dougherty expressed his condolences to Diamond's family and affirmed the office's commitment to seeking justice for the victims and the community.
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
This tragedy highlights how little regard some people have for human life. We need a more serious approach to such individuals.
Africa
Condolences won’t fix the systemic issues leading to such violence! We need comprehensive reforms!
Bermudez
Let’s focus on supporting the victims and preventing this kind of violence in the future!
Mariposa
I appreciate Governor Polis’s support for the victims and the community. We need leaders like him.
Muchacha
It’s good to see the charges being upgraded. Accountability is essential in these rates of violence.