Padma Lakshmi “Hoping for Swift Healing” for Ex Salman Rushdie

On August 12, Salman was preparing to speak at an event at the Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, New York, when a man ran on stage and stabbed him about 12 times in the face, neck, stomach and chest. A spokesman for the prosecutor’s office told NBC News about it. The author was airlifted to hospital and the suspect was arrested and charged with attempted murder and assault.

Zafar continued: “We are so grateful to all the spectators who bravely rushed to his rescue and provided first aid, along with the police and doctors who attended to him, and for the outpouring of love and support from around the world. We ask for patience and solitude as the family gathers at his bedside to support and help him through this time.”

Padma was Salman’s fourth wife. He was previously married to Zafar’s mother, Clarissa Luard, Elizabeth West—with whom he has a 23-year-old son, Milan Rushdieand Marianne Wiggins.

Suspect in stabbing murder, New Jersey man Hadi Matarpleaded not guilty to charges of attempted second-degree murder and second-degree assault.