Muslim woman suing US hospital after vicious patient attack

A Muslim woman who was physically attacked at a US hospital claims the assault was "religiously motivated" and that staff failed to protect her.

A man can be seen approaching the woman from behind, he then punches her multiple times in the head. Source: Reuters

A Muslim woman is suing a US hospital after she was physically attacked by a man when she arrived to receive treatment for a broken jaw.

The 19-year-old college student, who has not been named, claims the Beaumont Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan, failed to protect her from being assaulted by a patient in their care.

In a civil complaint cited by ABC News (US), the woman says she arrived at the hospital about 3.30am on February 10, 2017, to be treated for a broken jaw after she slipped on ice.

CCTV footage shows the woman present to the emergency room reception desk in a dark blue hijab. A uniformed security guard also stands nearby.

The woman arrives at the emergency room reception alone and can be seen talking to the receptionist. Source: Reuters

Seconds after she begins speaking with the receptionist, a man quickly approaches her from behind and punches her repeatedly in the side of the head.

The woman then falls to the ground. The receptionist can be seen rushing to her aid and dragging her away from the attacker who is restrained by security.

The accused attacker has since been identified as John Deliz, 57.

The woman’s lawyer says the hospital should have done more to prevent the incident.

"Certainly, after watching the video, and hearing my client's version of events, the circumstantial evidence would lead one to conclude that the attack was religiously motivated," Majed Moughni told CBS.  

A man can be seen approaching the woman from behind, he then punches her multiple times in the head. Source: Reuters

"There were five people in the lobby and my client was the only one who wore the hijab."

Mr Moughni alleged the hospital knew the accused required mental health treatment.

"The hospital was aware of his condition as he was brought because he needed mental treatment. Instead of treating him, they discharged him into the ER waiting room," Mr Moughni alleged.

"Instead of giving him mental treatment, they put him back in the patient pool, thereby giving way to his attack."

In a statement to Detroit News, a hospital spokesman insisted workers acted appropriately.

The receptionist is seen rushing to the aid of the woman, and a security guard restrains the accused. Source: Reuters

“Beaumont security personnel responded immediately and took action to protect the patient and others in the emergency room,” the hospital spokesman said.

“Dearborn Police were contacted and Beaumont staff cooperated fully in the investigation. We take pride in our service to this diverse community and want all patients to feel welcome at Beaumont.”

The woman is reportedly seeking $US25,000 in damages. Mr Moughni claims she has been "haunted" by the assault.