Sikh Trucker Attack Raises Safety Concerns Among Drivers

A Sikh truck driver who was stabbed 17 times at a Wyoming rest area has been released from the hospital, while the attack is raising safety concerns among Sikh and South Asian truck drivers.

The driver was attacked September 13 inside a restroom at the Bitter Creek Rest Area on I-80. Another truck driver was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder. Authorities say the motive remains unknown.

Community leaders say drivers are worried because the attack comes amid increased hostile rhetoric toward Sikh and South Asian truckers. The North American Punjabi Trucking Association says drivers have contacted the organization with concerns about their own safety.

Sikh advocacy groups want investigators to consider whether bias played a role. However, authorities have not determined that the attack was a hate crime.