A Life Lost in Boulder's Dark Moment
A Peaceful Protest Turns Deadly
A peaceful protest in Boulder took a tragic turn when an elderly woman lost her life. Karen Diamond, 82, was among many injured in an attack on Pearl Street Mall. The suspect, Mohamed Soliman, now faces serious charges, including murder, after throwing Molotov cocktails at the crowd.
A Beloved Community Figure
Diamond was a well-known and beloved figure in Boulder. She volunteered extensively, including at her synagogue and Historic Boulder. She also helped rebuild her synagogue after a devastating flood in 2013. Her community admired her for her kindness and dedication.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
The attack occurred during a protest for Israeli hostages. Soliman allegedly disguised himself as a gardener and shouted "Free Palestine!" while throwing the Molotov cocktails. Court documents reveal he had planned the attack for over a year.
Soliman now faces over 100 charges, including hate crimes and attempted murder. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life in prison. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 15.
A Community in Mourning
The Boulder Jewish Community mourns Diamond's loss. Leaders described her as a warm and generous person who will be deeply missed. Governor Jared Polis also expressed his condolences, calling her death a tragedy for the entire state.
A Shock to the Community
This violent act has shocked Boulder, highlighting how quickly violence can disrupt peaceful gatherings. The community is coming together to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.