Sikh Truck Driver Stabbed 17 Times at Wyoming Rest Stop

Date: September 19, 2026
Source: CNN
Topic: Wyoming Stabbing, Sikh Community, Truck Driver Safety

A Sikh truck driver from Sacramento survived a brutal stabbing at a Wyoming rest stop after he was attacked inside a restroom early Sunday, according to authorities and people representing the victim. The driver, who has asked to be identified only by his last name, Singh, suffered 17 stab wounds and was transported by helicopter to a trauma hospital.

The attack happened at the Bitter Creek Rest Area on Interstate 80, between Cheyenne and Salt Lake City. According to court documents, Singh was using the restroom when a man allegedly followed him inside and attacked him from behind. Singh managed to fight the attacker off and escape, but collapsed outside the restroom.

A family who witnessed the aftermath helped Singh and provided information to authorities. The family also followed the suspect’s truck after he left the rest area, helping Wyoming Highway Patrol locate him near Rawlins. Andrew Kris Bzdak, 45, was arrested and is being held on a $1 million bond on suspicion of attempted first-degree murder.

Investigators have not announced a motive for the attack. Sweetwater County authorities have said there is currently no known motive and no continuing threat to the public. Bzdak’s defense attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to AP.

The case has nevertheless caused concern among Sikh and South Asian communities across the United States. Sikh community leaders say the attack comes amid increased anti-Sikh and anti-immigrant rhetoric surrounding the trucking industry. They have raised questions about whether Singh’s identity or appearance played a role, but authorities have not determined that the stabbing was a hate-motivated crime.

The victim was discharged after spending several days in a Casper hospital and was expected to return home. His representatives say he hopes to continue working as a truck driver, including driving through Wyoming again.

The investigation remains ongoing, and prosecutors will have to prove the allegations against Bzdak in court.