A Muslim man from India was stabbed 15 times in a shocking attack inside a mall in Utah, United States, after he was asked about his religion. The victim suffered multiple stab wounds and was bleeding profusely, according to a police affidavit.
The man was identified as Sohail. The incident happened inside Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah. The suspect, 48-year-old Peter Michael Larsen, was booked and sent to Salt Lake County Jail on suspicion of attempted murder and prohibited dangerous weapon conduct.
Sohail, who worked at a jewellery brand’s kiosk in the mall, was allegedly attacked after Larsen first asked him for a bottle of water. The suspect assaulted Sohail when he turned to get the bottle. Before the attack, Larsen also questioned Sohail about his religious identity and the country he belonged to, according to the victim’s colleagues.
The authorities are investigating the incident. Though it appears to be a racially motivated attack, the reason has not yet been officially confirmed.
“He was just working, like every day,” said Adnan Mohammed, who owns the kiosk where Sohail worked. “He is a father; he has two kids. His kids were waiting home for their father. He was just working, providing for his family. I wish I was there to protect him. I would’ve given my life to protect him,” he added.
Adnan said he was grateful to the bystanders who stepped in and helped save Sohail’s life, saying their actions showed that humanity still exists. However, he said the attack has deeply shaken the local community.
“It’s terrible. I've never experienced anything like this before,” he said, adding that the world should not turn to hate. “Work hard, be nice, spread love. There is not space for hate. I believe in only one religion, which is humanity. First humanity, then everything.”
Sohail’s friend Nunez has set up a GoFundMe page for him in order to support him financially as he recovers from near-fatal injuries.
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