An antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, earlier this month has resulted in the death of 82-year-old Karen Diamond, who succumbed to severe injuries sustained during the incident, confirmed the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office. Diamond is the sole fatality linked to the attack, which has now officially identified 29 victims.
District Attorney Michael Dougherty described Diamond as a cherished individual whose life was tragically cut short. Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed condolences, noting the profound impact of Diamond’s loss on both the Boulder community and the wider Jewish population in the state. He praised her positive influence on friends and family, lamenting that she was taken too soon.
The primary suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Soliman, originally from Egypt, is facing two counts of first-degree murder in connection with Diamond’s death, alongside over 100 additional charges, including attempted murder, assault, and cruelty to animals. His charges have been escalated to incorporate the latest developments. Given the severity of the charges related to Diamond’s death, Soliman could face life imprisonment if convicted.
Soliman’s next court appearance is scheduled for 15 July. He is represented by the Colorado Office of the State Public Defender, which typically refrains from commenting on ongoing cases. Alongside state charges, he is also facing federal hate crime allegations stemming from the attack. While Soliman has pleaded not guilty to these federal charges, the potential for further federal prosecution related to Diamond’s death remains uncertain, with the Justice Department yet to reach a decision.
The community continues to mourn Diamond’s unfortunate passing as it highlights the broader issues of violence and hatred that led to this tragic event.