Molotov horror: Terrorist sets crowd ablaze at Colorado Pro-Israel rally

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Panic and flames ripped through a peaceful Sunday afternoon in Boulder, Colorado, after a man launched a horrifying attack at the bustling Pearl Street Mall, an incident the FBI has declared a “targeted terror attack.”

The assailant, believed to be carrying Molotov cocktails, reportedly set multiple people on fire near a pro-Israel demonstration, sending thick smoke and terrified screams across the downtown area.

Eyewitness videos show chaos erupting around the iconic fountain as victims collapsed and bystanders scrambled for cover.

Boulder Police confirmed several victims sustained burn and other injuries, and the suspect—an unidentified adult male—was apprehended at the scene and taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

FBI Director Kash Patel described the incident as a “targeted terror attack” via social media, vowing that the bureau was fully engaged and would “share updates as more information becomes available.”

Senior FBI official Dan Bongio added, “If you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide.”

The attacker reportedly targeted a peaceful pro-Israel rally organised in solidarity with hostages in Gaza.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser called it a “hate crime,” underscoring the chilling nature of the assault.

Disturbing footage from the scene shows at least one man on fire, smoke billowing through the air, and people fleeing in all directions.

Emergency crews were seen wheeling the wounded on stretchers, as terrified witnesses described bottles filled with flammable liquid—suspected Molotov cocktails—being hurled into the crowd.

While Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn has not officially confirmed the motive or weapon type, he acknowledged reports of “people being set on fire” and said officers acted swiftly to detain the suspect without further incident.

Governor Jared Polis condemned the attack as a “heinous act of terror,” expressing solidarity with the victims and pledging state cooperation with federal law enforcement.

“Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable,” he said.

Police have cordoned off a large section of downtown Boulder and are currently examining a “vehicle of interest.”

Authorities urge the public to stay away from the area as the investigation unfolds.

With tensions surrounding global conflicts already high, this act has reignited concerns over domestic extremism in the U.S.

“Violence is never the answer to settling differences,” Attorney General Weiser reminded the public. “Hate has no place in Colorado.”