Holocaust Survivor Karen Diamond, 82, Dies from Injuries in Boulder Molotov Cocktail Attack
Boulder, Colorado – Holocaust survivor and longtime Boulder resident Karen Diamond, 82, has died from injuries sustained during a Molotov cocktail attack on June 1 at a peaceful pro‑Israel demonstration in downtown Boulder, the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office announced Monday
🔥 The Attack
-
What happened: During a “Run for Their Lives” solidarity walk for Israeli hostages, an assailant disguised as a gardener used a homemade flamethrower and threw at least two Molotov cocktails into the group on Pearl Street Mall
-
Motive: The attacker, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, shouted “Free Palestine” during the assault and said he targeted participants he perceived as “Zionists” Casualties: Twenty-nine individuals, including Diamond, were affected. Thirteen suffered physical injuries. Diamond remained critically injured until her passing on June 25 or shortly after
⚖️ Legal Proceedings
-
Charges upgraded: Soliman, previously charged with numerous counts including attempted murder and hate crimes, now faces additional first-degree murder charges related to Diamond’s death—two counts under state charges—as well as 66 new charges in total
-
Federal indictments: Soliman faces 12 federal hate-crime charges stemming from the attack. He has pleaded not guilty
-
Next hearing: A preliminary state court hearing is scheduled for July 15 to determine if the case proceeds
🕯️ Community Remembrance
-
Holocaust survivor: Diamond, a beloved member of Boulder’s Jewish community, was celebrated for her warmth and generosity. Holy community leaders praised her longstanding contributions and spirit
-
Official reactions:
-
Boulder Jewish Community Center leadership said: “Karen was a cherished member of our community, someone whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact”
-
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed devastation, stating Diamond was “taken from us too soon”
-
District Attorney Michael Dougherty pledged justice, urging the public to support the investigation and grieving family
-
-
Wider reactions: Jewish advocacy groups, including the American Jewish Committee and Secure Community Network, extended condolences and reaffirmed commitments to community safety
📌 Broader Significance
-
Rise in antisemitic violence: The attack, now classified as a violent hate crime, underscores increasing threats faced by Jewish communities. Diamond’s death deepens concerns surrounding politically motivated and ideologically driven violence
-
Entrenched planning: Investigators revealed Soliman planned the attack over a year, unsuccessfully attempted to purchase a firearm, then resorted to homemade incendiary devices
-
Legal gravity: With Colorado’s abolition of the death penalty, Soliman—if convicted—faces life imprisonment without parole
💡 In Summary
-
Victim: Karen Diamond, 82 — Holocaust survivor, admired Boulder resident.
-
Incident: June 1 Molotov cocktail and flamethrower attack during a demonstration.
-
Aftermath: Diamond succumbed to her injuries on June 25.
-
Legal status: Attacker Mohamed Sabry Soliman now faces first-degree murder charges, numerous federal hate-crime counts, and is due in court July 15.
-
Community impact: A tragic symbol of the rising tide of hate-fueled violence and a stark reminder of societal fractures rooted in global conflict.
This heartbreaking event has shaken Boulder and the broader Jewish community. As authorities prepare to prosecute what has become the region’s most severe antisemitic attack in recent memory, they also call on the public to aid the investigation, support survivors, and speak out against hate.