On Wednesday, USA Today published an article that focused on the daughter of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national accused of firebombing Jewish demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado. The original headline of the article, titled ‘Boulder suspect’s daughter dreamed of studying medicine. Now she faces deportation.’ was initially criticized by many for emphasizing the family’s situation instead of the severity of the crime. The White House has since spoken out against the media outlet’s reporting, calling it a ‘disgraceful’ piece of journalism.
The incident has sparked a wave of criticism from conservative lawmakers, including Senator Cynthia Lummis, who condemned the article for giving undue attention to the family of a suspect in a hate crime. Other conservative commentators, such as John Hasson, have also voiced their disapproval, calling the article a disgrace that fails to highlight the victims of the crime.
After the backlash, USA Today updated its article, changing the headline to ‘Habiba Sol, the daughter of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, wanted to be a doctor. Then, her father firebombed Jewish marchers in Boulder.’
Meanwhile, the family of Mohamed Sabry Soliman is in federal custody and facing the possibility of deportation. The Department of Homeland Security is currently investigating whether any family members were involved in or supported the attack, as stated by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem in a statement made on X.
The attack, which occurred on a peaceful pro-Israel rally, resulted in serious injuries to several people, including an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor. The incident has led to a broader conversation about border security and the role of foreign nationals in such violent acts.
As the situation evolves, the media’s role in reporting on such sensitive issues continues to be a topic of public debate, with many calling for more focus on the victims and less on the family of a terrorist suspect.