(TNND) — A “targeted terror attack” in Boulder, Colorado is being investigated by authorities, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.
“We are aware of and fully investigating a targeted terror attack in Boulder, Colorado,” Patel said on X. “Our agents and local law enforcement are on the scene already, and we will share updates as more information becomes available.”
Police said a suspect has been taken into custody.
The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon just before 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of 13th Street and Pearl Street. According to reports from ABC News, there was a group of people participating in a pro-Israel demonstration when the attack occurred.
Police responded to reports of a man with a weapon as well as people being set on fire.
The event where the attack took place was being held at a pedestrian mall where demonstrators gathered to call for the release of Israeli hostages who still remain in Gaza.
Police said there were multiple victims on the scene sustaining injuries consistent with burns.
About an hour after reports, the police department said it began evacuating the area from Broadway to the west, Pine Street to the north and 16th Street to the east and Walnut Street to the south.
According to the police, the investigation is ongoing as the suspect’s motive remains unclear.
“It would be irresponsible for me to speculate on motive this early on,” Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn told reporters Sunday evening adding that witnesses are being interviewed.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis responded to the incident, calling the attack a “heinous act of terror.”
“Hate-filled acts of any kind are unacceptable. While details emerge, the state works with local and federal law enforcement to support this investigation,” Polis wrote on X.
According to Denver-based nonprofit Jewishcolorado, which is a part of the Jewish Federations of North America, the Run for Their Lives walks is a reoccurring event in downtown Boulder.
“We have been walking in Boulder, CO since Thanksgiving 2023 to show solidarity for the plight of the hostages still being held in Gaza,” according to the organization’s website. “We will continue to walk until all hostages are released.”
