Boulder Rocked by Violent Flamethrower Attack as Suspect Shouts "Free Palestine"
In a disturbing act of violence, a man launched an unprovoked attack in Boulder, Colorado, using a flamethrower while reportedly shouting “Free Palestine”. The shocking incident has triggered fear and confusion in the quiet college town and prompted swift responses from local authorities, counter-terror experts, and community leaders.
According to police, the attack took place on a crowded downtown street, where pedestrians and nearby businesses were caught off guard by the sudden chaos. The suspect, now in custody, is being interrogated by federal and local law enforcement to determine whether this was an act of domestic terrorism, a politically motivated assault, or the actions of a lone disturbed individual.
🔥 What Happened in Boulder?
Eyewitnesses say the attack occurred around 6:30 PM, when the man approached a group of people standing near a food truck and ignited a makeshift flamethrower, constructed from pressurized fuel canisters and a modified igniter.
“People were screaming and running. It was like a warzone,” said a local shop owner who witnessed the scene.
At least three people were injured, including one man who suffered second-degree burns and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Several others were treated for smoke inhalation and panic-related trauma.
🗣️ The Shouted Phrase: “Free Palestine”
Multiple witnesses reported the man shouting “Free Palestine” repeatedly as he brandished the weapon and moved down the block. This has led investigators to look into political or ideological motives, especially amid ongoing global tensions surrounding the Middle East conflict.
However, authorities remain cautious about making assumptions.
“We are examining all possible motives, including political messaging, mental health factors, and personal grievances,” said a Boulder Police spokesperson.
No evidence yet confirms any direct affiliation with organized extremist groups, but the phrase used, paired with the violence, has raised national security alarms.
🧠 Was This Terrorism?
While officials haven’t officially labeled the attack as terrorism, the case is being treated with high alert due to the public setting, use of a deadly weapon, and ideological slogans shouted during the event.
Local FBI agents are coordinating with Homeland Security and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to investigate the origin of the flamethrower and any online activities or group associations linked to the suspect.
🚓 Who Is the Suspect?
The alleged attacker is described as a 29-year-old male, believed to be a resident of the area. According to preliminary reports:
-
He has no significant criminal history, but
-
Was previously flagged for posting erratic political content online,
-
And was once reported for aggressive behavior at a community protest earlier this year.
Police have not yet released his name pending formal charges.
🏥 Victims and Community Impact
Among the injured, one victim remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition, while others have been discharged. The psychological toll, however, is far-reaching.
Parents are calling for increased patrols, schools have heightened security, and businesses near the scene have temporarily closed. Community leaders have emphasized unity and healing, urging residents not to jump to conclusions or target any ethnic or political groups unfairly.
🧯 Weapon Details: How Did He Get a Flamethrower?
Although it sounds surreal, flamethrowers are not federally banned in many U.S. states, including Colorado. The weapon used appeared to be a homemade device, combining a backpack fuel tank and a pressurized torch-like nozzle.
Law enforcement is investigating how he acquired or built it, and whether online instructions played a role. Legislators are now calling for stricter regulation on incendiary devices, especially those capable of harming multiple people.
🗳️ Political and Social Reactions
The phrase “Free Palestine” being associated with such violence has ignited fierce debate online and in political circles. While some fear this may inflame anti-Palestinian sentiment, others argue that one individual’s actions should not reflect an entire movement or community.
Advocacy groups have urged people to separate violent behavior from legitimate political discourse, while also condemning any form of assault, regardless of ideology.
📢 Officials Respond
The mayor of Boulder released a statement saying:
“This act of violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our city. We are grateful for the quick response from first responders, and we will pursue justice swiftly.”
Senators and local representatives have also voiced concern over the increasing normalization of violent protest, urging a national discussion on mental health, political radicalization, and public safety.
🔮 What Happens Next?
The suspect is expected to face multiple felony charges, including:
-
Attempted murder
-
Use of a weapon of mass destruction
-
Assault with a deadly weapon
-
Reckless endangerment
If found to be ideologically motivated, federal charges under domestic terrorism statutes may also be applied.
In the coming days, Boulder officials plan to host community healing forums, provide counseling services, and review security protocols for public spaces.