War veteran arrested, accused of threatening to kill people at West Valley Islamic Center

A war veteran was arrested last week after allegedly threatening to kill Muslims at a West Valley center of worship.

According to police documents, officers were called to the West Valley Islamic Center on March 24 for a man who was reportedly making statements about intentions to harm Muslims.

The man, identified by police as Michael Hanson, 37, said he was watching the film “American Sniper” when he decided to look for the nearest Muslim center “as a ‘show of force.’”

Hanson, who appeared to be intoxicated, was seen heckling worshippers before leaving in a Lyft vehicle. A short time later, officers found Hanson had returned to the center and was attempting to hide near a dumpster.

He also reportedly threatened to bomb the Islamic center, but took back his statements during conversations with detectives, whom he also reportedly aimed threats at during the interview process.

Read more: ABC 15 Arizona