Southern Illinois News

Mike Bost, representative for Illinois' 12th Congressional District, said that Americans must address illegal immigration and antisemitism following the attack on Boulder, Colorado residents.

"Last weekend's hate-fueled terror attack in Boulder, Colorado should outrage every American," said Bost, U.S. Representative, according to Facebook. "An illegal immigrant targeted innocent people at a peaceful pro-Israel rally with firebombs — simply because of their faith and support of Israel. As we pray for the victims, we must redouble our efforts to end illegal immigration into our country and stamp out antisemitism once and for all. I agree with President Trump: this will not be tolerated."

The incident occurred at a rally in Boulder hosted by the pro-Israel group "Run for Their Lives" on June 1. The group was advocating for Hamas to release Israeli hostages. According to Fox News, the suspect was identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national. He allegedly shouted "Free Palestine" while using a weapon to set people on fire. Soliman reportedly entered the U.S. on an expired visa issued after his arrival on August 27, 2022. The nonimmigrant visa authorized his stay until February 2, 2023. He filed a claim with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and obtained work authorization in March 2023.

Screenshot of U.S. Rep. Mike Bost's June 3 Facebook post | U.S. Rep. Mike Bost's Facebook page

The FBI reported eight victims were identified after the attack, comprising four men and four women aged between 52 and 88, though their names were not disclosed. Boulder police responded to the scene and arrested Mohamed Sabry Soliman at 1:32 p.m. He underwent medical evaluation at a hospital before being booked into Boulder County Jail. Shortly thereafter, Boulder police contacted the FBI for assistance. "Boulder is not immune to tragedy, sadly," said Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn in an FBI news release. He urged the community to unite during this challenging time.

Bost has represented Illinois’ 12th District since January 6, 2015. A lifelong Murphysboro resident, he has extensive experience in state politics, having served as the House Republican Caucus Chair in the Illinois State House of Representatives for two decades. Bost is also a former U.S. Marine Corps member and worked for many years at Bost Trucking Service before joining the Murphysboro Fire Department after completing training at the University of Illinois’ Certified Firefighter II Academy in 1993.