Key Takeaways
- A 48-year-old man was arrested in Utah for stabbing a Muslim man multiple times.
- The suspect stated he targeted the victim due to his religion and intended to kill Muslims.
- The incident occurred at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City on Monday.
A 48-year-old man has been arrested in Utah for stabbing a Muslim kiosk worker multiple times, according to court records. The suspect, identified as Peter Michael Larsen, was charged with attempted murder and prohibited dangerous weapon conduct.
The incident took place inside the Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City on Monday. Police reported that the victim, described as a male Muslim kiosk worker, had 'multiple stab wounds all over his body' and was bleeding profusely. He was subsequently hospitalised in critical condition.
According to police booking affidavits, Larsen stated he targeted the victim with intent to kill him because of his religion (Muslim). The suspect approached the victim, asked for his name, enquired about his religion, and then began stabbing him as the victim turned to get a bottle of water. An Imam who had been in contact with the victim’s family reported these details.
Bystanders subdued the attacker before police arrived on the scene. Larsen was hospitalised due to injuries sustained during the struggle but was later booked into Salt Lake County jail. A GoFundMe page has been set up for the victim, who reportedly suffered 15 stab wounds and needed surgeries.
The incident has drawn condemnation from Muslim rights groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). CAIR spokespersons have expressed concern over rising Islamophobia in recent years, citing events such as a 2023 stabbing of a 6-year-old Muslim child in Illinois and a 2026 shooting at a San Diego mosque that left five dead.
US rights advocates note an increase in anti-Muslim sentiment following the September 11, 2001, attacks, along with more recent incidents linked to anti-immigration policies, white supremacy, and geopolitical tensions. The arrest of Larsen underscores ongoing concerns about religious-based violence in the United States.
