Karen Diamond, a Boulder resident severely injured in the June 1 firebombing during a Run for Their Lives gathering, died on Wednesday, June 25, according to officials and representatives of her family. She was 82.
Her death marks a tragic development in a terror attack that has deeply shaken the Boulder community and intensified concerns over antisemitic violence and hate speech.
The attack occurred during a weekly demonstration organized by Run for Their Lives, a group that advocates for the release of hostages held in Gaza. Authorities said Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, threw multiple incendiary devices at the crowd, injuring at least a dozen people. Prosecutors have said the attacker yelled “Free Palestine” during the assault and that he targeted Run for Their Lives participants because he “hated the Zionist group.”
The suspect has been charged with federal hate crimes. On Monday, June 30, the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office said it has amended its state charges to include two counts of first-degree murder. The suspect is also charged with attempted murder for the other victims. He faces life in prison.
Diamond was recognized in 2019 with the Margaret Willard Award from the University Women’s Club. The honor is given to women who demonstrate service, leadership and contributions to the community. She volunteered with several local organizations, including Bridge House, which supports homeless people, according to the UWC. After the 2013 flood, she used her professional interior design skills to help rebuild and refurbish her synagogue, Congregation Bonai Shalom.
“She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, cousin, aunt, and friend, and a beautiful soul with limitless kindness and positivity toward everyone,” her family said in a statement shared by Bonai Shalom.
Authorities and Bonai Shalom said the family has requested privacy as they grieve.
In a statement Monday, Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty called on the community to support Diamond’s family and loved ones.
“This horrific attack has now claimed the life of an innocent person who was beloved by her family and friends,” Dougherty said. “Our office will fight for justice for the victims, their loved ones, and the community.”
The Boulder City Council and city officials issued a statement Monday afternoon offering condolences and acknowledging the physical and emotional trauma of the antisemitic attack.
“This is an unfathomable loss for our Jewish community, still reeling from this act of hatred and violence, and we stand with them in support and solidarity,” the statement read.
It is my understanding that it was Karen’s birthday and I believe it was the first time Lou and she attended the walk. It is horrific and unbelievable that this happened here to those I know in the community and see often walking in front of my house. It is so unfair their lives and those around them were so profoundly affected. It makes us all afraid for what we take for granted as the very right to live.