Boulder firebombing suspect pleads guilty to 12 federal counts

Mohamed Soliman admitted to 12 federal hate crime counts on Thursday in connection with a firebombing attack on Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall. The hearing took place at the Arraj Courthouse at 10 a.m. The judge found Soliman competent to enter the pleas.

Soliman had previously pleaded not guilty to these federal charges on June 27, 2025. The federal case runs parallel to state charges that resulted in a life sentence without parole and 2,128 additional years in prison. That state sentence was handed down in May 2026 following his guilty pleas to more than 100 counts, including first-degree murder.

Prosecutors say Soliman threw two Molotov cocktails at a group marching in support of Israeli captives held by Hamas. The group, which identified as the Jewish Community of Boulder, had marched through downtown Boulder every Sunday for over a year prior to the attack. Each week ended at the Boulder County Courthouse.

The 12 federal counts include one hate crime resulting in the death of Karen Diamond. Seven counts involve bodily injury and intent to kill. One count covers an attempt to cause bodily injury using an incendiary device. Two counts involve using fire to commit a felony, and one count involves carrying an explosive during a felony.

U.S. Attorney Peter McNeilly stated the federal case holds Soliman responsible for the hateful ideology behind the violence. McNeilly explained that Soliman believed the victims were Jewish and Israeli, which motivated his actions on June 22, 2025. The federal charges specifically address that motivation.

The judge has not yet set a final sentence but noted that sentencing guidelines are only a guide. Governor Jared Polis has requested life in prison plus 50 years. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on January 7, 2027.