Key facts
- A man was arrested in Utah for stabbing a Muslim victim multiple times.
- The suspect reportedly told police he targeted the victim because of his religion.
- The suspect stated he intends to kill Muslims.
- The stabbing occurred at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah.
- Bystanders subdued the attacker before police arrived.
- The victim was hospitalized in critical condition with multiple stab wounds.
A man identified as Peter Michael Larsen, 48, was arrested in Utah for allegedly stabbing a Muslim man multiple times inside the Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City. Police stated in court records that Larsen targeted the victim because of his religion and expressed an intent to kill Muslims, indicating he posed a substantial danger to the public. The victim, a Muslim kiosk worker, sustained numerous stab wounds and was hospitalized in critical condition. Bystanders reportedly subdued Larsen before law enforcement arrived. Larsen was also hospitalized for injuries sustained during the altercation before being booked into jail on charges of attempted murder and prohibited dangerous weapon conduct. Rights advocates have noted a rise in Islamophobia in recent years, citing factors such as anti-immigration policies and the conflict in Gaza.