NEWARK, N.J. – The imam of a mosque in Newark was fatally shot outside the place of worship early Wednesday morning after delivering morning prayers. Imam Hassan Sharif, who was recently elected as resident imam of Masjid Muhammad-Newark, was shot twice in the parking lot of the mosque and later died from his injuries at University Hospital in Newark.
According to Imam Wahy-ud Deen Shareef, convener of the Council of Imams in New Jersey, the motive behind the shooting is unknown. However, this is not the first time Imam Sharif has been attacked. He had previously been targeted in a gunpoint attack outside the mosque several months ago, where he managed to disarm the suspect before they fled.
The shooting occurred at around 6:16 a.m. prompting the authorities to respond and rush Imam Sharif to the hospital. Officials later confirmed that he died at 2:21 p.m. The Essex County Crime Stoppers Program is offering a $25,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the shooter.
Imam Sharif, a former boxer who also worked as an officer for the Transportation Security Administration, was known for being a community activist who condemned gun violence and supported efforts to keep the city safe.
In response to the incident, Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of protecting residents in their houses of worship and assured that everything will be done to ensure the safety of all residents, especially in or near places of worship.
The motivation for the crime is still unknown, and investigators do not have evidence indicating that this was an act motivated by bias. However, the Muslim community has been expressing concerns over an increase in bias incidents and crimes, prompting efforts to promote safety and awareness about Muslim traditions and contributions.