Political leaders condemned an alleged “terror attack” in Boulder, Colorado, on Sunday, after a male suspect allegedly threw bottles of flammable liquid at people.

“My thoughts are with the victims of the horrifying terror attack that occurred this afternoon in Boulder. Hate and violence of any kind will not be tolerated in Colorado,” Senator Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat, wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “I will remain in contact with local officials as new information becomes available.”

The Context

The FBI quickly said the attack in Boulder was being investigated as terrorism on Sunday, although local police initially said they had not yet made that determination. The attack reportedly came as peaceful demonstrators protested in support of freeing Israeli hostages who continue to be held by Hamas amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war was sparked by an October 7, 2023, attack led by Hamas and allied Palestinian factions against Israel, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the abduction of 251. Today, around 58 people, fewer than half of whom are believed to still be alive, remain captive in Gaza. Over 54,000 people have died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-led Palestinian Health Ministry in the war-torn territory amid Israel’s subsequent military campaign.

The area where Sunday’s attack occurred, known as Pearl Street Mall, attracts visitors and locals with its shops and restaurants. It is also the site of many local performances and demonstrations.

What To Know

Several people are injured after the attack, according to local law enforcement. The extent of the injuries have not been confirmed, but local law enforcement said they ranged from minor to more severe, and that the suspect was injured as well.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said Sunday that it is investigating a “targeted terror attack” in Boulder, according to FBI Director Kash Patel in a post on X.

“We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available,” he wrote.

Deputy FBI director Dan Bongino also posted to X, saying the attack was being probed as an “act of terror.”

“All of the necessary assets will be dedicated to this investigation. If you have any investigative tips please contact the FBI. And if you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide,” Bongino wrote.

Local law enforcement said during a Sunday afternoon press conference that the scene was contained and that a suspect was in custody. They did not release the individual’s identity or share information about a motive. While they noted that they’d been in touch with the FBI, they said they had not yet determined it was a terrorism.

Images from the scene of the attack showed an Israeli flag on the ground. The organization Run for Their Lives, which demonstrates peacefully for Israeli hostages held by Hamas, was holding an event in the location when the attack occurred.

What Political Leaders Are Saying

Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat, wrote on X: “I am closely monitoring the situation in Boulder, and my thoughts go out to the people who have been injured and impacted by this heinous act of terror. Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. While details emerge, the state works with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation. More information will be provided as it becomes available.”

Senator John Hickenlooper, a Colorado Democrat, on X: “Hate of any kind has no home in Colorado. We’re monitoring the reports of a horrific terror attack in Boulder this afternoon. Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones.”

Representative Gabe Evans, a Colorado Republican, on X: “My team is monitoring the attack of terror just outside our district in Boulder. Hate has no home in Colorado. We are praying for all those affected. Thank you law enforcement for quickly responding to the scene. Please follow their updates as more information is released.”

Representative Joe Neguse, a Colorado Democrat, on X: “We are closely monitoring, and are in contact with local law enforcement regarding the horrific attack on Pearl Street Mall. Praying hard for the victims.”

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston on X: “Our hearts are with Boulder as we mourn the innocent victims of senseless violence. Denver Police Department is in contact with Boulder PD to provide any support they need. Hate has no place in Colorado.”

What Happens Next

Authorities have yet to release more details about the victims and the suspect taken into custody. An alleged motive for the attack will likely be determined and announced by law enforcement later today or tomorrow.