A Utah man told police he repeatedly stabbed a Muslim man because of the man’s faith and intended to kill him, according to court records filed Monday.The Muslim man survived the attack Monday afternoon at a mall southeast of Salt Lake City. But he’s expected to face a long recovery after suffering more than 15 stab wounds, according to a GoFundMe page set up to help with medical expenses.Bystanders were able to get the knife out of the suspect’s hand before police arrived at the scene at Valley Fair Mall, court records show. The suspect, Peter Michael Larsen, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and carrying a prohibited dangerous weapon. He told police he targeted the employee over his religious beliefs, according to the court records, which didn’t list an attorney who could comment on his behalf. The Associated Press was unable to locate any of Larsen’s immediate family in public records. The Valley Fair Mall did not immediately respond to email and voicemail requests for comment.
Larsen, 48, was on parole for a previous violent felony, court records show. He is being held without bail. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill, whose office is determining whether to pursue charges, declined to comment.
