Jakarta, ThedailyID — A Muslim man remains in critical condition after a suspect allegedly stabbed him multiple times in what police believe was an Islamophobic attack at a shopping mall in Utah, United States.
Police identified the suspect as Peter Michael Larsen. According to arrest documents cited by Reuters, investigators believe he deliberately targeted the victim because of his religion.
“The suspect targeted the victim with the intent to kill him because of his religion (Muslim),” police wrote in the arrest affidavit.
The attack took place on Monday inside Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah.
Witnesses said the suspect approached the victim and asked his name and religion. He then gestured as if he wanted a bottle of water.
When the victim turned to get the water, the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and began stabbing him.
Emergency responders rushed the victim to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
A friend later launched a GoFundMe campaign, saying the victim suffered 15 stab wounds and required emergency surgery.
“The victim suffered stab wounds across his body and lost a significant amount of blood,” police said.
Bystanders restrained the suspect until officers arrived at the scene.
Authorities have booked Larsen into the Salt Lake County Jail. He faces charges of attempted murder and possession of a prohibited dangerous weapon while investigators continue the case.
Police argued the suspect poses a serious threat if released.
“He poses a significant danger to the community based on his ideologically motivated violence and his alleged plans for a mass killing,” investigators said.
