A Number Of People Injured During Pro-Israel Demonstration In Colorado

JAKARTA - A number of people suffered burns during a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, United States, the local police chief said.

A suspect has been detained and police are investigating what FBI officials immediately called a "targeted terror attack" although local authorities say it is too early to define the attack.

"When we arrived, we found many victims with injuries matching burns," said Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfear Sunday, quoted by CNN June 2.

The man threw bottles that appeared to contain flammable liquid that fell to the ground and exploded in the flames, several law enforcement officials briefed on the investigation told CNN, noting the exact number of the bottles was unclear.

At least two people have been taken to hospital, according to the officials.

The attack reportedly took place at the Boulder Run for Their Lives, the Anti-Defamation League said on social media. Weekly gatherings of Jewish community members are meant to support hostages held hostage during the October 7 attack on Israel in 2023.

"We are saddened and heartbroken to learn that an incendiary device was thrown at pedestrians at the Run for Their Lives parade on Pearl Street as they raise awareness of the hostages still being held in Gaza," the Boulder Jewish community said in a joint statement to CNN.

Separately, Colorado Governor Jared Polis is "monitoring the situation thoroughly," he said in a statement on Sunday.

"Hateful acts of any kind are unacceptable. While details emerge, the state cooperates with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation. Further information will be provided as soon as available," Polis explained.

Although the suspect has not been identified by the police, federal charges are expected in the case, sources familiar with the investigation told CNN.

FBI agents and federal prosecutors are currently reviewing the circumstances of the incident to determine whether the person will be charged with terrorism or under other federal criminal laws, the source said.

The source further stressed that the potential mental health problems have not been ruled out, which could be a factor in any indictment decision.

Meanwhile, FBI officials quickly labeled the incident as terrorism. However, local law enforcement officials said earlier at a press conference the motive was still under investigation.

FBI Director Kash Patel said in a social media post, "we are aware and fully investigating the terror attacks targeted in Boulder, Colorado. Our agents and local law enforcement are already at the scene, and we will share updates when more information is available."

Meanwhile, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino added: "We are investigating this incident as an act of terror and targeted violence."