Boulder Firebomb Attack Suspect Waives Preliminary Hearing; Faces Murder, Hate Crime Charges

Mohamed Sabry Soliman, accused of a deadly firebomb attack on peaceful demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado, waived his right to a preliminary hearing, allowing the case to move toward trial. Soliman faces over 180 state charges including two counts of first-degree murder, 52 counts of attempted first-degree murder, and multiple assault and incendiary device charges, following the death of 82-year-old Karen Diamond and injuries to 13 others. The attack targeted participants in a march raising awareness for Israeli hostages in Gaza, with Soliman reportedly shouting "Free Palestine!" and disguising himself as a gardener to get close to his victims. Federal prosecutors have also charged him with a hate crime, alleging the victims were targeted for their perceived connection to Israel, although Soliman's defense disputes the hate crime motivation. Despite the defense's request to delay arraignment for more time to prepare, the judge set the arraignment for September 9, when Soliman is expected to enter a plea. Soliman, an Egyptian national who overstayed a tourist visa, admitted to planning the attack for over a year and could face life imprisonment without parole if convicted on the most serious charges.