Indian Man Asked About Religion, Stabbed 15 Times At US Mall For Being Muslim

Washington: A 48-year-old Indian kiosk worker was subjected to a life-threatening attack at Valley Fair Mall in Utah, USA, because he was Muslim. The assailant asked the victim about his religion and, upon hearing "yes," stabbed him 15 times. According to reports, the accused, Peter Michael Larson, told investigators that he deliberately targeted the Indian man, named Sohail, because he was Muslim. Larson's alleged intent was to harm Muslims. The incident reportedly took place on Monday.

Was the victim asked about his religion?

According to the police, Larson approached Sohail at the mall, struck up a conversation, and suddenly asked, "Are you Muslim?" When Sohail answered in the affirmative, Larson pulled out a knife and launched an attack. Luna Nunez, an employee at a nearby jewelry store, recounted that Larson first asked, "Where are you from?" Sohail replied, "I am from India; my name is Sohail." Larson then asked, "Are you Muslim?" Sohail said yes, and Larson immediately began stabbing him.

According to Shuaib Deen, Imam of the Utah Islamic Center, Larson asked Sohail for a bottle of water. As soon as Sohail turned around, Larson pulled out a knife and attacked. Sohail was stabbed 15 times. He has undergone multiple surgeries, and his condition remains critical. Sohail is reportedly the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes his wife and two young children; he does not have health insurance.

Was the accused apprehended by people at the mall?

It is reported that before the police arrived, several people at the mall tackled Larson and pinned him to the ground, preventing further harm. Larson sustained injuries during his arrest, for which he received treatment. Investigators have described Larson as a "significant threat" to the public. He has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon. He is currently being held at the Salt Lake County Jail.

No place for hate
Meanwhile, Sohail's manager, Adnan Mohammad, strongly condemned the incident. Speaking to Fox 13, he described it as sheer madness and a hate crime, stating that there is no place for hate. Sohail was always smiling and worked very hard; I was the one who promoted him to the position of manager. When you harm someone, it affects not just that individual, but the entire family.