An Indian Muslim man is battling for his life after being stabbed 15 times in a suspected hate-motivated attack inside a shopping mall in Utah, United States. Investigators say the suspect allegedly questioned the victim about his nationality and religion before launching the brutal assault, prompting authorities to treat the case as a targeted attack.
The victim, identified by friends as Sohail, remains in critical condition after undergoing multiple surgeries. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has extended consular assistance to his family and said it is closely monitoring the investigation.
Indian Muslim Stabbed After Religion Question
The attack took place at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah, where Sohail was working at a kiosk.
According to eyewitnesses and court documents, the suspect approached Sohail and first asked where he was from. After Sohail replied that he was from India, the man allegedly asked if he was Muslim.
Moments after Sohail confirmed his faith, the attacker allegedly pulled out a knife and repeatedly stabbed him.
Witness Luna Nunez, who works at a nearby jewellery store, said the assault happened without warning after the brief conversation.
Police later described the incident as a deliberate and targeted attack based on the victim’s religion.
Police Say Suspect Targeted Victim Because Of Religion
The accused has been identified as Peter Michael Larsen, 48.
According to court records, Larsen allegedly admitted during questioning that he intentionally chose Sohail because he was Muslim.
Investigators further claimed the suspect stated he intended to kill Muslims, leading authorities to classify him as a significant threat to public safety.
Police said Larsen has been booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on charges including attempted murder and prohibited dangerous weapon conduct.
Authorities are also examining whether additional hate crime charges may be applicable under state or federal law.
Victim Undergoes Multiple Surgeries
Emergency responders found Sohail with multiple stab wounds across his body and severe blood loss.
He was immediately rushed to hospital, where doctors performed several emergency surgeries.
Friends said Sohail does not have medical insurance and is the sole earning member of his family, which includes his wife and two young children.
A fundraising campaign has since been launched to help cover his medical expenses and support his family during his recovery.
His manager, Adnan Mohammed, described the incident as heartbreaking and praised the members of the public who intervened before police arrived.
Bystanders Overpowered The Attacker
Witnesses said several shoppers rushed to Sohail’s rescue after seeing the attack unfold.
People inside the mall reportedly threw chairs and other objects at the suspect before physically restraining him until police reached the scene.
The accused also sustained minor injuries while being held by bystanders and later received medical treatment before being taken into custody.
Authorities credited the quick actions of civilians with preventing an even greater tragedy.
Indian Consulate Offers Assistance
Following the attack, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed concern over the incident.
In an official statement, the mission said it was deeply saddened by the stabbing of the Indian national and remained in constant contact with the victim’s family and local authorities.
The Consulate assured that it would provide all possible consular assistance while continuing to monitor the investigation closely.
Suspect Had Previous Criminal History
Local media reports revealed that Larsen had prior encounters with law enforcement.
In 2022, police responded after he allegedly set fire to his property and threatened firefighters with a shotgun. He was later convicted and sentenced to prison before being released in January 2025.
Authorities are now examining whether his previous criminal history and alleged extremist views played a role in the latest attack.
Hate Crime Concerns Grow In The US
The Utah stabbing has renewed concerns over anti-Muslim hate crimes in the United States.
Civil rights organisations have repeatedly warned about rising Islamophobia fueled by extremist ideologies, anti-immigration rhetoric and growing social tensions.
The latest incident follows several high-profile attacks targeting Muslim communities in recent years, including fatal assaults in Illinois and shootings at places of worship.
As Sohail continues to fight for his life, investigators are working to establish the full motive behind the attack while authorities pursue legal action against the accused. The case has once again highlighted growing concerns over religiously motivated violence and the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable communities.
