Mohamed Soliman Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges in Pearl Street Mall Attack

Mohamed Soliman appeared in federal court on Thursday, changing his plea to guilty on several charges related to an attack at the Pearl Street Mall in June 2025.

This incident involved more than 100 state charges, including first-degree murder. Soliman had already admitted guilt to these charges in state court earlier.

During a demonstration in support of Israeli captives held by Hamas, Soliman threw two Molotov cocktails at a group, resulting in one death and over a dozen injuries.

The group, Run for Their Lives, had been conducting marches in downtown Boulder for over a year. Their weekly marches concluded at the Boulder County Courthouse.

After pleading guilty to state charges, Soliman received a life sentence without parole for murder and an additional 2,128 years for other offenses.

In federal court, Soliman faced 12 hate crime charges. He appeared at the Arraj Courthouse for a change-of-plea hearing. The judge confirmed his competency for a guilty plea.

Initially, Soliman had pleaded not guilty to federal charges in June 2025. The 12 charges include:

• 1 count – hate crime resulting in death
• 7 counts – violation of hate crime involving bodily injury and intent to kill
• 1 count – hate crime involving attempt to cause bodily injury and attempt to kill
• 2 counts – using fire or explosives to commit a felony
• 1 count – carrying explosives during commission of a felony

U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado, Peter McNeilly, emphasized the importance of the federal case in addressing Soliman’s ideology. He noted the federal charges highlight Soliman’s motive, targeting individuals he perceived as Jewish and Israeli.

The judge has not finalized the sentencing, mentioning that guidelines serve as advice and may not be strictly followed. Governor Polis has requested life imprisonment plus 50 years.

The sentencing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on January 7, 2027.