(HOUSTON, TX, 12/1/23) – The Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights group, today marked the one-month anniversary of the tragic stabbing-murder of Dr. Talat Jehan Khan by calling on federal law enforcement to launch a thorough investigation into the incident as a potential hate crime.   

Dr. Khan, a beloved member of the community, dedicated pediatrician, mother, and sister to her surviving siblings, was brutally stabbed on Saturday, October 28, allegedly by Miles Joseph Fridrich. No motive has been revealed, and the lack of an explanation for her murder raises concerns that it may have been motivated by hate.   

SEE Arrest made in fatal stabbing of Muslim physician – no evidence of a hate crime so far, police say  

ALSO: Texas man faces murder charge after doctor stabbed to death at picnic table.  

In a statement, William White, Director of CAIR-Houston, said:  

“Dr. Khan’s loss leaves a family mourning and a community apprehensive. The circumstances surrounding Dr. Khan’s murder demand a thorough and exhaustive investigation. It’s been one month, and the family and community deserve answers. Given the horrifying nature of the incident, the lack of an explanation, and the climate we find ourselves in, it is imperative to explore every possible motive. We call on federal law enforcement authorities to investigate a possible bias motive for her murder.”  

“In speaking with the family and the community at large, we are disappointed with the pace of this investigation. The timing of Dr. Talat Khan’s murder, along with the increased Islamophobia and bigotry sweeping through the country, require answers, and the family has yet to see that from Montgomery County,” said Attorney John Floyd, who is representing the family at the request of CAIR-Houston. 

He added: “Montgomery County must conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the defendant’s motive for the gruesome and senseless murder, including whether this horrific murder was motivated by hate. We urge that federal law enforcement launch an independent federal investigation to complement the state investigation.”   

As the community mourns the tragic loss of Dr. Talat Jehan Khan, CAIR-Houston calls on the public to remain vigilant and for law enforcement agencies to prioritize a swift and transparent investigation.  

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.              

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.   

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CONTACT: John Floyd, CAIR Board Member and Representative of the family, 713-224-0101, jfloyd@cair.com, William White, Director, CAIR-Houston, 713-254-2016, w-white@cair.com