Boulder Community Grieves After Death of Karen Diamond, 82, in Antisemitic Firebombing Attack

Boulder, CO – The city of Boulder is in mourning following the death of Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old Jewish woman who succumbed to injuries sustained in a violent antisemitic attack during a pro-Israel march earlier this month. Diamond died on June 25 after weeks in intensive care, according to the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office.

The attack occurred on June 1, when Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 46, allegedly disguised himself as a gardener and hurled two Molotov cocktails into a crowd participating in the “Run for Their Lives” march, an event supporting Israeli hostages. Witnesses and court documents state that Soliman shouted pro-Palestinian slogans, including “Free Palestine,” during the assault. Authorities later discovered that Soliman had brought 16 additional incendiary devices to the scene.

Thirteen people were physically injured in the attack, with at least eight requiring hospitalization. The ongoing investigation has identified a total of 29 victims. Diamond’s death has led prosecutors to upgrade charges against Soliman to first-degree murder, in addition to the attempted murder and federal hate crime charges he already faced. While Colorado abolished the death penalty in 2020, federal prosecutors could still pursue capital charges due to the hate crime element.

Diamond was a beloved member of Boulder’s Congregation Bonai Shalom and was remembered for her warmth and generosity. She was privately laid to rest, with her family and the local Jewish community expressing deep sorrow. Rabbi Marc Soloway described the pain as “horrific,” and Jonathan Lev, executive director of the Boulder Jewish Community Center, called Diamond “a cherished member of our community, someone whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her”.

District Attorney Michael Dougherty pledged to pursue justice for Diamond and all victims, stating, “This horrific attack has now claimed the life of an innocent person who was beloved by her family and friends. Our hearts are with the Diamond family during this incredibly difficult time”.

The attack has sparked renewed calls for justice and heightened concern over rising antisemitic violence in the United States. Organizations including the Anti-Defamation League and Jewish Federations of North America have condemned the attack and urged continued vigilance against hate crimes.

The Boulder community continues to rally in support of the victims and to stand united against hatred and violence.