Boulder Firebombing Victim Karen Diamond Dies; Suspect Faces First-Degree Murder Charges
Boulder Firebombing Victim Karen Diamond Dies; Suspect Faces First-Degree Murder Charges
Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old victim of the antisemitic firebombing on Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall earlier this month, has tragically died. Her death, confirmed Wednesday, has prompted the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office to file additional charges, including first-degree murder, against the accused perpetrator, Mohamed Sabry Soliman.
Diamond sustained severe burns during the June 1 attack while participating in a “Run for Their Lives” walk, a group advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas. The Boulder Jewish Community Center expressed profound grief, stating in an email, “Karen was a cherished member of our community, someone whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her.”
In a Monday morning release, the District Attorney’s Office announced that the ongoing investigation has identified more victims, leading to a significant expansion of charges against Soliman, 45. Originally indicted with nine hate-crime counts and other related charges, Soliman now faces a total of 29 victims named in the amended complaint. The new filing includes two counts of first-degree murder, 52 counts of attempted first-degree murder, 8 counts of first-degree assault, 18 counts of attempted first-degree assault, two counts of third-degree assault, two counts of using an incendiary device, 16 counts of attempted use of an incendiary device, and one count of animal cruelty. Thirteen of the 29 victims suffered physical injuries.
District Attorney Michael Dougherty extended condolences, remarking, “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 family has requested privacy as they grieve.
Diamond was a highly active and respected member of the Boulder community, serving as a former president of the Boulder University Women’s Club (UWC) and receiving its prestigious Margaret Willard Award in 2019 for her outstanding contributions. Her extensive volunteerism included work with Boulder Bridge House, Historic Boulder, her synagogue, and local music and arts organizations.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) also released statements mourning Diamond’s death, with CEO Jonathan Greenblatt highlighting the urgent need to combat antisemitism following this and other recent attacks. “This heinous attack… demonstrates the urgent need for elected officials and community leaders to take immediate action to stop antisemitism,” Greenblatt stated. This remains a developing story as legal proceedings advance.
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