AVONDALE, Ariz. — A 37-year-old Iraq War veteran, identified as Michael Hanson, was arrested after allegedly making violent threats toward Muslims at the West Valley Islamic Center on March 24, police documents revealed Friday.
According to officers, Hanson appeared intoxicated and verbally harassed worshippers outside the mosque after claiming that watching the movie American Sniper had “triggered” PTSD symptoms and prompted him to visit a Muslim center “as a show of force.”
Incident Details
Initial Call: Police were dispatched after witnesses reported Hanson making threats to kill Muslims.
Alleged Threats: Hanson also reportedly threatened to bomb the Islamic Center, though he later recanted those statements during a police interview.
Repeat Presence: After initially leaving the scene in a Lyft, Hanson returned shortly after and was found hiding behind a dumpster.
During his interview, Hanson allegedly made threats toward detectives and acknowledged his mental health struggles, which officers linked to his military service and previous contacts with Goodyear Police and the Veterans Affairs Hospital.
Digital Evidence and Arrest
Investigators recovered phone evidence allegedly showing Hanson’s hatred toward Muslims and apparent intent to commit violence. He was ultimately arrested at a mental health facility several days later.
Hanson now faces multiple charges, including:
Making a Terroristic Threat
Disorderly Conduct
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and assess any broader threats.
