An Indian-origin Muslim man is fighting for his life after being repeatedly stabbed at a shopping mall in the US state of Utah in what investigators say was a religiously motivated attack.According to court documents, the suspect allegedly admitted to police that he targeted the victim because he was Muslim and intended to kill him. The attack took place on Monday at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, where the victim, identified as Syed Sohail Uddin, was working at a kiosk.Authorities said bystanders intervened during the assault, overpowering the suspect and taking away the knife before police arrived.The suspect, 48-year-old Peter Michael Larsen, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and carrying a prohibited dangerous weapon.
What we know so far:
- Victim identified: The victim has been identified as Syed Sohail Uddin, an Indian-origin Muslim who worked at a kiosk inside Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah.
- Attack allegedly followed questions about his faith: According to witnesses and religious leaders in contact with the family, Larsen approached Uddin, asked his name, where he was from and whether he was Muslim before requesting a bottle of water. As Uddin turned away, the suspect allegedly began stabbing him.
- More than 15 stab wounds: Uddin sustained more than 15 stab wounds across his body. Friends and colleagues said he required multiple surgeries, while doctors have been closely monitoring his condition, including injuries affecting his heart.
- Suspect allegedly confessed to religious motive: Police said Larsen admitted during questioning that he targeted Uddin because he was Muslim. Court records state he also told investigators that he believed he was “a catalyst” and intended “to kill Muslims”.
- Bystanders stopped the attack: Witnesses rushed to Uddin’s aid, pinned Larsen to the ground and wrestled the knife from him before officers arrived. The suspect was also treated for injuries sustained while being restrained.
- Suspect held without bail: Larsen, who was on parole for a previous violent felony, was booked into Salt Lake County Jail on suspicion of attempted murder and prohibited dangerous weapon conduct. Investigators argued he posed a significant danger to the public because of his alleged extremist beliefs and violent actions.
- Coworkers describe victim as a protector: Colleagues described Uddin as a cheerful and caring employee who often stepped in to help coworkers deal with difficult customers. Friends said he frequently spoke about his wife and two young children.
- Community shaken by attack: Adnan Mohammed, Uddin’s employer and a family friend, called it a “miracle” that he survived. He said the incident had left him fearing for his own family’s safety after witnessing the aftermath.
- Muslim leaders condemn violence: Imam Shuaib Din of the Utah Islamic Centre, where Uddin worshipped, said the attack was the most serious assault on a member of Utah’s Muslim community in the state’s history.
- Investigation and charges ongoing: Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said prosecutors are reviewing the case and will decide on formal charges after receiving the full investigation.
