Indian National Stabbed 15 Times in US Mall in Alleged Religion-Based Attack
An Indian national was allegedly stabbed 15 times inside a shopping mall near Salt Lake City, Utah, by a man who first asked him his religion before attacking him, police said.
The victim, Syed Sohailuddin, a worker at the Valley City Mall in West Valley City, was hospitalised and underwent surgery for his injuries. He is reported to be in stable condition.
The suspect, Peter Michael Larsen, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. In interviews with police, Larsen reportedly confirmed that he targeted Sohailuddin because of his religious beliefs. Authorities are treating the incident as a hate crime.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco said it is in close contact with the victim’s family and is engaged with local authorities to monitor the investigation and ensure necessary consular assistance.
Local police have not released further details about the motive or any prior relationship between the victim and suspect. The case remains under investigation.
