BOULDER, Colo. (October 28, 2025) — The Boulder Police Department has released new, high-resolution images of a man wanted in connection with a shocking assault on a student leader near the University of Colorado Boulder. The incident, which reportedly involved a suspect wielding a hockey stick, has drawn widespread attention and concern over possible political motivations.
Assault Near Campus Draws Public Attention
According to investigators, the attack occurred around 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, in the 2700 block of Baseline Road — a busy corridor not far from the university campus.
Police said the male victim, described as a student leader with Turning Point USA, was approached by a man on rollerblades who began shouting at him before striking him with a hockey stick.
“The victim was not seriously injured and declined medical treatment,” police confirmed in a statement Friday morning.
The victim called 911 immediately after the incident, prompting an area search by responding officers. Despite a swift response, the suspect fled before police arrived.
New Surveillance Images Show Clearer View of Suspect
Boulder Police initially released several grainy surveillance stills late Thursday night. However, newly obtained footage has provided a clearer look at the person of interest, believed to be involved in the assault.
“Our focus is on identifying and locating the individual in the photos so that we can better understand what occurred and why,” said Boulder Police spokesperson Sarah Huntley.
Authorities are asking anyone who recognizes the individual to contact Detective E. Starks at Starkse@bouldercolorado.gov or 303-441-3067, referencing case #25-10213.
Possible Political Motivation Under Review
While investigators have not confirmed a motive, early findings suggest the suspect may have followed the victim from the University of Colorado Boulder campus to the scene of the assault.
Detectives are also reviewing social media posts and a digital flyer that circulated before the attack, allegedly targeting the victim. Officials emphasized, however, that no direct link has been confirmed between those online materials and the physical assault.
“We are aware of concerns circulating online regarding the victim’s activism and affiliations,” said a department source familiar with the case. “At this stage, our focus is identifying the suspect and piecing together the sequence of events.”
Community and Campus Reaction
The incident has ignited debate within the Boulder community and beyond, with many calling for calm and restraint as police continue their investigation. Supporters of the victim expressed concern over growing hostility toward students involved in political activism, while others urged against politicizing the event before all facts are known.
University officials have not issued a formal statement, but campus security has reportedly increased patrols in areas surrounding Baseline Road and the nearby student housing complexes.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday, no arrests have been made. Detectives continue to analyze video evidence, collect witness statements, and examine whether the assault qualifies as a bias-motivated incident under Colorado law.
“This investigation is ongoing, and we are working diligently to determine the circumstances surrounding the assault,” Huntley said.
Boulder Police are urging anyone who was near Baseline Road and 27th Way between 6:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. on October 23 to reach out with information or footage that could assist the case.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
Authorities reiterated that the victim’s identity is being withheld for privacy reasons, in line with department policy. The department also cautioned residents to avoid spreading unverified information on social media as the investigation continues.
“We want the public to know that we’re taking this very seriously,” Huntley added. “Every lead is being followed up on to ensure a thorough and fair investigation.”
The Boulder Police Department is expected to release additional updates as new information emerges.
Anyone with tips is urged to contact Detective E. Starks at Starkse@bouldercolorado.gov or call 303-441-3067, referencing case #25-10213.