Salman Rushdie: Alleged attacker identified as Hadi Matar

24-year-old stabbed the Booker Prize-winning author 'at least once in the neck and at least once in the abdomen'

Salman Rushdie : File Photo

TT Web Desk   |   New York   |   13.08.22  : In the latest development, the authorities have identified Salman Rushdie's alleged attacker as 24-year-old New Jersey-based Hadi Matar, according to Major Eugene J. Staniszewski from the New York State Police.

"The alleged attacker is currently in custody. He had a pass to be on the grounds of Chautauqua Institution's lecture. He has not been formally charged yet," he said.

 The charges will depend on Rushdie's condition, who is currently hospitalized in Erie, Pennsylvania.

He said approximately at 10:47 am local time, Rushdie and his interviewer, Henry Reese (73), arrived on stage at the Chautauqua Institution. Shortly thereafter, the suspect jumped on the stage and attacked Rushdie, "stabbing him at least once in the neck and at least once in the abdomen".

Staniszewski said several members of the staff at the institution and audience members rushed towards the suspect and took him to the ground.

He said Rushdie was provided medical treatment by a doctor who was in the audience until medical personnel arrived on scene. Rushdie was airlifted to a local trauma centre and is "still undergoing surgery".