MULTIPLE people have been seriously injured after a “targeted terror attack” in Colorado – as the FBI open up an “active investigation”.
Terrified witnesses reported seeing several people being set on fire by a man outside of a mall in Boulder, according to cops.
During a protest outside the Pearl Street Mall calling for the release of Gaza hostages, pro-Israel demonstrators were reportedly targeted in an attack.
Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn says many of the victims reported injuries consistent with burns to their skin.
The condition of those wounded range from minor to “very serious” with an exact number yet to be announced.
Officers responded as quickly as they could once being alerted of the carnage at around 1:26pm local time.
Mass evacuations were quickly ordered near to the crime scene on 13th and Pearl Street.
It is unclear what weapon was used.
Unconfirmed reports stated petrol bombs may have been thrown by the suspect.
A man has since been arrested “without incident” and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment on his burns, cops said.
He was then marched into custody for questioning.
Investigators are still hunting for a vehicle of interest which was seen near to the mall at the time of the attack.
FBI Director Kash Patel took to social media to confirm the incident, stating that law enforcement officials were present at the scene and would provide more details as they were made available.
Mr Patel also described it as a terror attack.
Police in Colorado are yet to agree and say any motive is still unclear.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis said in a statement that he is closely monitoring the situation.
He added “hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable”.
The group attacked are believed to have been taking part in a peaceful demonstrative walk organized by a group called Run For Their Lives.
They have reportedly held similar marches since the October 7 massacre.
Around 30 people took part in today’s demonstration.
Following the attack, the Jewish community in Boulder released a statement expressing their sorrow and shock over an explosive device being thrown at participants of the Run for Their Lives walk on Pearl Street.
“We don’t have all the details of what is unfolding, and we promise to keep our community informed.
“Our hearts go out to those who witnessed this horrible attack, and prayers for a speedy recovery to those who were injured.”
Boulder is a popular university city northwest of Denver with around 105,000 residents.
