Karen Diamond Boulder CO Obituary and Death – The Boulder community is grieving deeply after the tragic death of Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old longtime resident and cherished member of Congregation Bonai Shalom. Karen passed away on June 25, succumbing to injuries she sustained during a horrific antisemitic terror attack that shocked Boulder and reverberated nationwide.
Karen’s passing was quietly marked with a private burial attended by close family members. The news of her death was publicly shared on June 30, intensifying the community’s sorrow and outrage over the violent event.
Karen Diamond was a peaceful and dedicated protester participating in the weekly “Run for Their Lives” walk along Boulder’s Pearl Street pedestrian mall. This event is organized to raise awareness for Israeli hostages held in Gaza and serves as a symbol of solidarity, advocacy, and human rights support. Tragically, this peaceful demonstration became the scene of a hate-driven attack, which claimed Karen’s life and injured many others.
Her death sent shockwaves throughout Boulder’s Jewish community. Rabbi Marc Soloway of Congregation Bonai Shalom expressed profound grief, stating, “There are no words to express the pain of this horrific loss of our beloved member and friend. We will need to support each other as we process this loss. Karen was deeply loved, and her absence is already being profoundly felt.” He also appealed for privacy and compassion for Karen’s family during these distressing times.
Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty announced additional state-level first-degree murder charges against the suspect, 45-year-old Mohamed Sabry Soliman from Colorado Springs. Describing Karen’s death as “horrific,” Dougherty pledged ongoing support for Karen’s family and all the victims of the attack. He highlighted Colorado’s strength in uniting communities in the face of tragedy and expressed confidence that Boulder would continue to rally around those affected.
Authorities revealed that Soliman, who was unlawfully residing in the U.S. after overstaying a visa, worked as an Uber driver. According to police reports and federal filings, Soliman confessed to deliberately targeting the protest due to his opposition to Israel’s involvement in Gaza, shouting “Free Palestine” during the assault. Investigations showed that Soliman had planned the attack for over a year, stopping en route from Colorado Springs to Boulder to purchase gasoline, glass bottles, a weed sprayer, and flowers—items used in the attack.
Soliman faces multiple charges including hate crimes, terrorism, and 66 state-level counts related to the 29 victims impacted, of whom 13 suffered physical injuries. Additionally, he faces animal cruelty charges for injuring a dog during the incident. Federal authorities have yet to announce whether further charges will be pursued in connection with Karen’s death.
Karen Diamond’s life was marked by quiet strength, compassion, and commitment to justice. Those who knew her describe her as a woman deeply devoted to her community and fearless in advocating for what she believed to be right. Her active participation in the “Run for Their Lives” campaign was a testament to her enduring dedication to peace and humanity.
As Boulder and the nation grapple with this senseless act of violence, Karen’s memory stands as a beacon of resilience and hope. In a time of division, her courage and commitment to solidarity remain an inspiration. May her memory be a blessing, and may her family and loved ones find solace in the legacy of love and justice she leaves behind.
