The Boulder community is in mourning following the death of Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old resident and longtime member of Congregation Bonai Shalom, who succumbed to injuries sustained in what authorities have labeled a hate-motivated terror attack. Diamond died on June 25, with her death publicly announced five days later, on June 30, amplifying the city’s collective sorrow and outrage.
Diamond was a peaceful participant in Boulder’s weekly “Run for Their Lives” demonstration on the Pearl Street Mall, a grassroots event calling attention to Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The gathering, which has long stood as a symbol of peaceful protest and advocacy for human rights, turned into a scene of unspeakable violence when a man—now identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, of Colorado Springs—allegedly launched a coordinated firebomb attack targeting the group.
Karen was among the most seriously injured and fought for her life for several days before passing away. Her funeral was held in private, attended by close family members.
“This was a horrific loss,” said Rabbi Marc Soloway, who offered a moving tribute to Diamond’s life and legacy. “There are no words to express the pain of losing our beloved member and friend in such an unspeakable way. Karen was deeply loved, and her absence is already being profoundly felt.” Soloway also urged the public to respect the Diamond family’s privacy amid what he called “awful and distressing circumstances.”
In the wake of her death, Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty announced that first-degree murder charges would be added to the extensive list of state-level offenses already filed against Soliman. “Karen’s death is heartbreaking,” Dougherty said. “What makes Colorado strong is the way we come together in the face of tragedy. The Diamond family, and all of the victims, have our full support.”
Authorities say Soliman had been living in the U.S. illegally, overstaying a visa while working as a rideshare driver. According to investigators, he confessed to plotting the attack for over a year. On the day of the incident, he drove from Colorado Springs to Boulder, purchasing gasoline, glass bottles, and other materials along the way, allegedly disguising himself with a bouquet of flowers before launching Molotov cocktails at the demonstrators. Witnesses reported hearing him shout “Free Palestine” during the assault.
Soliman now faces 66 state-level charges, including multiple counts of attempted murder, hate crimes, arson, and animal cruelty—the latter stemming from injuries sustained by a dog during the attack. Federal authorities have not yet announced whether additional charges will follow in light of Diamond’s death.
For those who knew her, Karen Diamond was more than a victim—she was a force for good. Known for her quiet strength, unshakable compassion, and lifelong dedication to justice, Diamond had long been involved in efforts to foster peace and human dignity. Her participation in “Run for Their Lives” was just one facet of her broader mission to help shape a more humane and equitable world.
As Boulder grapples with this senseless act of violence, many are finding strength in Diamond’s legacy. Her life, devoted to peace, community, and unwavering moral clarity, now stands as a rallying cry against hate.
“Karen stood for what was right,” one community member said. “Even in the face of darkness, she carried light. That’s what we’ll remember.”
May her memory be a blessing—and may the community she helped build continue to carry her vision forward.