On Sunday, June 1, 2025, Boulder, Colorado, was the scene of a harrowing attack. What was intended as a peaceful protest to bring attention to hostages held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza turned violent. Just a few hours later, an assailant would use a truck to carry out a horrifying mass attack at Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall. Many attendees were burned as the aggressor allegedly used a weapon to start fires. Police later announced a suspect was in custody on Thursday, Feb.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn told reporters that the suspect suffered only minor wounds in the altercation, which nevertheless necessitated hospitalization. Law enforcement officials quickly responded, with some requiring protective gear as the investigation continued.
Activist group Run for Their Lives — Boulder, bought together nearly a hundred people to demonstrate. Their aim was to draw attention to the suffering of hostages in Gaza. Our collective work is not done. Chief Redfearn made this point, but he made it clear, “It is not safe down there, yet.” Earlier, law enforcement had asked the public to stay out of downtown Boulder. They were stopping and trying to question a vehicle that they thought may be related to the attack.
The police chief later said investigators were looking at the officer’s cruiser after the incident. At the same time, he called on residents to remain vigilant and cautious. The fact that the investigation is continuing has precluded some community members from fully healing, but has strengthened their resolve. As one organizer from Run for Their Lives — Boulder stated, “This is an ongoing event. We will continue to walk until all hostages are released.”
The violence erupted in the midst of what was intended to be a peaceful, creative demonstration. This attack has deepened fears over safety in public spaces and the increasing hostile environment related to war overseas. Investigators will be working in the coming days to understand more about what caused the attack and who the suspect was.