Indian Man Stabbed More Than 15 Times In Suspected Anti-Muslim Hate Attack in US

A suspected hate crime is being investigated in the US after an Indian man was critically injured in a knife attack at a shopping mall in West Valley City, Utah.

The victim, identified as Sohail, was working at a stall inside Valley Fair Mall when he was allegedly attacked on Monday. Police arrested 48-year-old Peter Michael Larsen, who allegedly admitted that he targeted the victim because he was a Muslim.

Questions Before Attack

According to Imam Shuaib Din of the Utah Islamic Center, the accused first asked Sohail about his name, where he was from and his religion. After learning that he was from India and a Muslim, the accused allegedly asked for a bottle of water. When Sohail turned around, he was attacked with a knife.

Police said the suspect made anti-Muslim remarks after his arrest and has been identified as a serious threat to public safety.

Shoppers Overpowered Accused

Witnesses and shoppers at the mall intervened and managed to restrain the accused until police arrived. Luna Nunez, who works at a nearby jewellery store, said people acted quickly to stop the attack.

According to a fundraising campaign, Sohail was stabbed more than 15 times and has undergone multiple surgeries. He remains in critical condition.

Family Appeals For Help

The campaign says Sohail is the sole earning member of his family, which includes his wife and two young children. As he does not have health insurance, the family has sought financial support to meet his treatment expenses.

Previous Criminal Record

Police records show Larsen was arrested in 2022 after allegedly setting fire outside his home and threatening firefighters with a gun. He is currently lodged in Salt Lake County Jail on charges including attempted murder and illegal possession of a weapon.