Multiple Injured in Suspected Terror Attack at Boulder Pedestrian Mall: Police Call Incident ‘Heinous’
BOULDER, CO — A serene Sunday afternoon in downtown Boulder turned into a scene of horror and chaos after a violent attack left multiple people injured — several of them critically — at the iconic Pearl Street pedestrian mall. The attack, which occurred just before 3:00 p.m. on June 1, 2025, is now being investigated by federal authorities as a possible act of terrorism, according to law enforcement officials.
Timeline of the Incident
Witnesses described the normally lively shopping and dining area as descending into panic within seconds. According to the Boulder Police Department, a lone assailant launched an unprovoked and targeted assault on pedestrians in the mall, wielding a bladed weapon and what appeared to be a makeshift explosive device.
Initial reports suggest the attacker moved quickly and erratically through the crowd, injuring at least seven people, two of whom are in critical condition at UCHealth Boulder Community Hospital. Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes, and the suspect was apprehended and taken into custody alive after a brief standoff.
Eyewitness Accounts: ‘It Was Like a Nightmare’
“I thought it was a street performance at first,” said Olivia Grant, a tourist visiting from Seattle. “But then people started screaming and running, and I saw someone collapse right in front of me.”
Other witnesses reported hearing loud banging noises and seeing smoke before police swarmed the area and ordered bystanders to evacuate.
“It was like a nightmare,” said Boulder resident Tim Heller. “I saw blood on the sidewalk and people helping others into nearby stores for shelter. It’s something you’d never expect to see in this city.”
Suspect in Custody, Motive Under Investigation
While officials have not yet released the identity of the suspect, they confirmed that the individual is currently in custody and being questioned by local and federal agents, including the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Boulder Police Chief Maris Herndon called the attack “heinous and cowardly,” stating that investigators are treating it as a suspected act of domestic terrorism until proven otherwise.
“We are coordinating with federal partners to fully understand the motives behind this brutal assault on innocent people,” Chief Herndon said during an evening press briefing. “We will not tolerate violence of this nature in our community.”
Authorities said they are combing through surveillance footage, digital evidence, and the suspect’s personal history to determine whether the attack was ideologically motivated, premeditated, or part of a larger threat.
City, State, and Federal Response
Colorado Governor Miguel Alvarez issued a statement shortly after the attack, expressing his condolences and urging calm.
“My heart is with the victims, their families, and the entire Boulder community. We stand united against hate and violence, and we will ensure that justice is served.”
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely and emphasized that there is no active threat to the public at this time, though increased security patrols have been deployed to similar high-traffic public spaces throughout the state.
Community Reaction and Support
The attack has left Boulder residents stunned and grieving. Pearl Street, known for its vibrant culture, independent shops, and open-air performers, has long been a symbol of Boulder’s peaceful and inclusive spirit. Sunday’s events have deeply shaken that sense of safety.
In response, local organizations, including Boulder Strong and Mental Health Partners, are offering counseling and trauma support to those affected. A candlelight vigil is being organized at Central Park on Monday evening, where the community will gather to support victims and reaffirm its commitment to peace.
What’s Next
The suspect is expected to be formally charged in federal court within the next 48 hours. Law enforcement agencies are urging anyone who may have photos, videos, or firsthand knowledge of the incident to come forward.
“We need the public’s help to ensure a thorough investigation,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Tanya Wallace. “Every detail counts.”
How to Help
- Donate blood at UCHealth or local Red Cross stations.
- Report tips or suspicious activity to the FBI Boulder Field Office.
- Support local victims’ funds being organized by Boulder nonprofits.
As Boulder begins the difficult process of healing from what officials are calling one of the city’s darkest days, residents are being urged to remain vigilant, support one another, and stand firm in their values of compassion, inclusion, and resilience.
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