Utah man charged in hate crime stabbing of Muslim worker

A 48-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly stabbing a Muslim mall worker multiple times in what authorities are investigating as a religion-based hate crime. The attack occurred on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah.

Police identified the suspect as Peter Michael Larsen. According to court documents, Larsen admitted to investigators that he targeted the victim, identified by friends as Sohail, because he was Muslim. Larsen allegedly stated he "intends to kill Muslims" and was described by police as posing "a substantial danger to the public" based on his violent actions, ideologies, and references to pre-planned mass casualty events.

The incident unfolded when Larsen approached Sohail, who was working at a kiosk, and asked his name and religion before requesting a bottle of water. As Sohail turned to retrieve the water, Larsen allegedly pulled out a knife and began stabbing him repeatedly. Bystanders intervened, tackling Larsen to the ground and restraining him until police arrived.

Officers found Sohail suffering from multiple stab wounds across his body and bleeding heavily. He was transported to a hospital, where he remains in...