Indian national stabbed in US over religion; hate crime suspected

Mangalore Today News Network

Washington, July 16, 2026: An Indian national was allegedly stabbed 15 times inside a shopping mall near Salt Lake City in the US state of Utah in what authorities are investigating as a suspected religiously motivated attack, according to media reports.

The victim, identified as Syed Sohailuddin, was working at Valley City Mall in West Valley City when he was allegedly attacked on Monday afternoon by Peter Michael Larsen. According to Fox 13 News, the suspect allegedly asked Sohailuddin about his religion before launching the assault.

Larsen was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and carrying a prohibited dangerous weapon. According to court records cited by ABC News, he told police that he targeted the victim because of his religious beliefs.

Sohailuddin sustained multiple stab wounds and was rushed to hospital, where he underwent surgery. Larsen was also hospitalised after bystanders intervened and allegedly punched him in the head while trying to stop the attack.

Reacting to the incident, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco said it was deeply saddened by the stabbing of the Indian national.

"The Consulate is in close contact with the victim’s friends and family and stands ready to provide all possible consular assistance. We remain engaged with local authorities and will continue to monitor the matter closely," the Consulate said in a post on X.