News Summary
A pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder took a violent turn when an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor was injured during an attack involving a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails. The incident left several attendees wounded, including members of a local synagogue. Authorities have classified the attack as a targeted act of terrorism, raising discussions about community safety and resilience. Steinmetz’s story highlights the painful history of trauma and the need for compassion in times of chaos. The community stands united against violence as they begin to heal from this shocking event.
Tragic Attack at Pro-Israel Demonstration in Boulder
It’s a moment no one should have to endure. During a peaceful demonstration advocating for the return of Israeli hostages in Gaza, an **88-year-old Holocaust survivor** named Barbara Steinmetz was injured in a shocking attack. The scene unfolded as members of a group called Run for Their Lives gathered to raise awareness about the plight of hostages, particularly those still trapped in tunnels.
Steinmetz, who has bravely shared her harrowing Holocaust experiences across local communities, was at the forefront of the event when the situation turned violent. The incident escalated with a man, later identified as **Mohamed Sabry Soliman**, launching a **makeshift flamethrower** at unsuspecting attendees. It didn’t stop there; Soliman also allegedly threw Molotov cocktails, filling the atmosphere with chaos.
A Broader Issue of Violence
With Steinmetz among the dozen injured in this misguided act, she emphasized the urgency of acknowledging a broader issue of violence. She expressed sentiment that we, as a society, are capable of so much more and are **better than this**. Her own history is a painful reminder of how traumatic acts can resurface in the mind, especially for someone who has survived so much.
Fortunately, while Steinmetz did sustain **minor burns**, she is on the mend. Two others, however, remain hospitalized, highlighting the severity of the assault. The victims of this attack weren’t just numbers; they included five congregants from Rabbi Marc Soloway’s synagogue, which speaks to the close-knit nature of the Boulder community.
Grave Charges and Community Impact
Authorities have classified the incident as a **targeted act of terrorism**, a serious designation that reflects the malice of Soliman’s actions. Facing multiple charges, including **first-degree murder** and **assault against at-risk adults**, Soliman’s situation raises questions about the implications of his immigration status. Having entered the U.S. on an expiring visa in February 2023, he has filed a work claim valid through March 2025.
Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn has reached out to the public, requesting any information related to the incident while reassuring community members that the city has faced challenges before and will recover from this violent act. What happened is a stark reminder that in our society, we must remain vigilant against the forces of hatred and violence.
Steinmetz’s Resilience
This unfortunate incident not only impacts those directly involved; it resonates throughout the community. Rabbi Soloway poignantly noted the trauma an event like this reactivates for someone like Steinmetz, who fled from Hungary during World War II and has recently found peace in Boulder. Her life story is an incredible testament to survival and resilience, having transitioned through multiple countries before settling in the U.S.
Boulder and its residents have shown remarkable strength, echoing Steinmetz’s call for humanity to address its darker sides with compassion and awareness. While the events are deeply concerning, they also ignite discussions on peace and understanding amidst chaos.
The demonstration led by Run for Their Lives sought not only to advocate for hostages but to remind us all of the importance of dialogue rather than violence. It’s a reminder that even in moments of darkness, we have the power to change narratives and support one another.
As the community continues to heal, it’s crucial to honor the voices of those affected and stand together against violence in all its forms. With efforts focusing on support and awareness, the hope is that the past can guide us toward a more peaceful future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC News: Holocaust Survivor Boulder Attack Victims
- Wikipedia: Holocaust
- Fox News: Holocaust Survivor Among Victims in Boulder
- Google Search: Boulder attack holocaust survivor
- NBC News: Holocaust Survivor Burned in Boulder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Holocaust
- People: Boulder Attack Colorado Holocaust Survivor Victim
- Google News: Holocaust survivor Boulder attack
