Boulder community mourns loss of Karen Diamond, after fatal antisemitic attack

Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old beloved member of Boulder’s Jewish community, Colorado, has died from injuries suffered during a brutal antisemitic attack earlier this month, officials confirmed Monday. Diamond was hospitalized with severe burns and trauma after being targeted in a firebombing on Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall on June 1, where she and others were peacefully protesting to raise awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

According to prosecutors, the attacker, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 46, allegedly threw two Molotov cocktails into the crowd while shouting pro-Palestinian slogans, including “Free Palestine.” Court documents reveal Soliman had brought 16 more incendiary devices to the scene and disguised himself as a gardener to get close to the marchers. The attack left 13 people physically injured, with at least eight requiring hospitalization, and a total of 29 victims have now been identified by authorities.

Diamond succumbed to her injuries on June 25 after weeks in intensive care. Her death has led prosecutors to upgrade charges against Soliman to first-degree murder, in addition to existing attempted murder and federal hate crime charges. Although Colorado abolished the death penalty in 2020, federal prosecutors could still pursue capital charges due to the hate crime element.
Diamond was privately laid to rest, with her family and members of Boulder’s Congregation Bonai Shalom mourning her loss. Rabbi Marc Soloway described the pain as “horrific,” while Jonathan Lev, executive director of the Boulder Jewish Community Center, called her “a cherished member of our community, someone whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her”. The Anti-Defamation League and Jewish Federations of North America expressed deep sorrow, warning that the attack reflects a broader and troubling rise in antisemitic violence across the United States.

District Attorney Michael Dougherty pledged to fight for 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 Boulder community continues to rally in support of the victims and to stand against hate.