The man behind a violent firebomb and flamethrower attack in Boulder, Colorado, has been identified as 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national who was in the United States illegally after overstaying his visa. Authorities have confirmed that Soliman had entered the country on a non-immigrant visa, which expired in early 2023. Despite the expiration, he remained in the U.S. unlawfully.

Following the expiration of his visa, Soliman applied for asylum and was granted temporary work authorization, which has since expired. Records also show that he had been denied a U.S. visa in a previous application years earlier.

The attack occurred during a peaceful, weekly march organized by a group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Soliman allegedly used Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower to target the crowd, injuring eight people between the ages of 52 and 88. Witnesses reported that the attacker shouted “Free Palestine” and other anti-Israel slogans during the assault.

One of the victims remains in critical condition, while others are being treated for burns and related injuries. Soliman was also injured during the incident and was taken into custody at the scene.

Law enforcement officials are treating the attack as a targeted act of terrorism. Investigators believe Soliman acted alone and there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public. The FBI and local authorities are continuing their investigation, focusing on the suspect’s immigration history, potential motives, and any ideological influences.

In the wake of the attack, local law enforcement has pledged to increase security at Jewish community events, and political leaders have called for a closer examination of current immigration and visa enforcement policies.