Indian National Stabbed in US After Revealing His Religion, Suffers 15 Knife Wounds

An Indian national was allegedly stabbed 15 times inside a shopping mall in the US state of Utah in what investigators believe was a religion-motivated attack , sending shockwaves through the Indian community and prompting the Indian Consulate to step in.

The victim, Syed Sohailuddin , who works at Valley City Mall in West Valley City , was allegedly attacked on Monday afternoon after the accused reportedly asked him about his religion. According to local media reports, the suspect then launched a violent knife assault, inflicting multiple stab wounds before bystanders intervened.

Police arrested Peter Michael Larsen on suspicion of attempted murder and carrying a prohibited dangerous weapon. Court records cited by US media indicate that the accused allegedly admitted to targeting Sohailuddin because of his religious beliefs , making the incident a possible hate-motivated attack.

Sohailuddin was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for his injuries. Authorities have not released details about his current medical condition, but reports said he remains under medical care following the brutal assault.

The suspect also sustained injuries after witnesses at the mall reportedly punched him while trying to stop the attack. He was later taken to a hospital before being taken into custody.

Reacting to the incident, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed deep concern and said it is closely monitoring the case. In a statement posted on X, the Consulate said it is in constant touch with the victim's family and friends and is prepared to extend all necessary consular assistance.

The mission also said it remains engaged with local authorities as the investigation progresses.

The shocking incident has once again drawn attention to concerns over hate-motivated violence and the safety of members of minority communities in public places. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.