FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino Issues Update on Boulder, Colorado Terror Attack Investigation

BOULDER, Colo. — FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino addressed the public on Sunday, June 1, 2025, regarding the ongoing investigation into a violent attack in Boulder, Colorado, which federal authorities are treating as a targeted act of terror. The incident, which occurred earlier today at the Pearl Street Mall, left multiple people injured, some with serious burns, during a peaceful demonstration organized by the Jewish community to raise awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

In a statement released via social media and reiterated in a press briefing, Bongino stated, "Our leadership team on the ground in Boulder will be updating you shortly on the attack in Boulder. This act of terror is being investigated as an act of ideologically motivated violence based on the early information, the evidence, and witness accounts. We will speak clearly on these incidents when the facts warrant it."

The attack took place just before 1:30 p.m. local time near the intersection of 13th and Pearl streets, according to Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn. Initial reports indicated a man threw bottles containing flammable liquid, described by witnesses as Molotov cocktails, at demonstrators, resulting in explosions and fires. Multiple victims sustained burn injuries, with at least two individuals transported to local hospitals, law enforcement officials confirmed. A suspect was apprehended at the scene without incident and was also taken to a hospital with minor injuries, though authorities have not yet released the individual’s identity.

Boulder police, while coordinating with the FBI, cautioned against premature conclusions about the motive. "It would be irresponsible for me to speculate on motive this early on," Chief Redfearn said during a news conference, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing. However, FBI leadership, including Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Bongino, swiftly labeled the incident a "targeted terror attack," signaling a focus on ideologically motivated violence. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser echoed this sentiment, stating, "From what we know, this attack appears to be a hate crime given the group that was targeted."

The demonstration, part of the weekly "Run for Their Lives" event, aimed to show solidarity with the 58 Israeli hostages still held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The Anti-Defamation League and local Jewish community leaders expressed heartbreak, noting the attack occurred on the eve of Shavuot, a significant Jewish holiday.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the violence, saying, "I am closely monitoring the situation in Boulder, and my thoughts go out to the people who have been injured and impacted by this heinous act of terror. Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable." Governor Polis affirmed the state’s commitment to supporting local and federal law enforcement in the investigation.

The FBI has deployed all necessary assets to the scene, with Bongino vowing, "If you aided or abetted this attack, we will find you. You cannot hide." Authorities are urging anyone with investigative tips to contact the FBI as the probe continues.

This developing story comes amid heightened tensions in the United States over the Israel-Hamas conflict, with rising reports of antisemitic incidents and debates over protest rights. As evidence is collected and witnesses are interviewed, officials promise further updates. The Boulder Police Department has evacuated several blocks around the Pearl Street Mall, and the public is asked to avoid the area as the investigation unfolds.

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