Imam of Newark Mosque Fatally Shot, Investigation Underway

Newark authorities have reported the tragic shooting and subsequent death of an imam at a mosque on South Orange Avenue. The imam, identified as Hassan Sharif, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found Sharif lying in the parking lot, approximately 10 feet away from the entrance of the mosque. As the investigation into the incident unfolds, law enforcement is working to determine the motive behind the imam’s shooting.

Local media reports have confirmed the fatal shooting of the imam of Masjid Muhammad-Newark, according to a spokesperson for New Jersey. State Attorney General Matthew Plotkin stated that bias does not appear to be a motive for the crime.

In a press release, Plotkin said, “This investigation is ongoing, but at this time we do not have any information suggesting the crime was motivated by bias. Every possible angle will, of course, be explored, and every lead will be fully investigated to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice.”

Governor Phil Murphy, acknowledging the concerns of the Muslim community amidst a rise in bias incidents and crimes, urged individuals with any information regarding the shooter to come forward. He reassured the public that every effort would be made to ensure the safety of all residents, particularly in or near places of worship.

A spokesperson for the non-profit organization CAIR-NJ expressed shock over the shooting, describing Sharif as a beacon of leadership in the community. The spokesperson stated, “We are shocked by the news of the shooting at Masjid Muhammad in Newark, NJ, during Fajr (pre-dawn) prayers. At this time, we do not have information on the perpetrator’s motive.”

The spokesperson further added, “Imam Hassan Sharif is a beacon of leadership in his community, and we are praying for his full and speedy recovery. We ask others to do the same. As always, and irrespective of this specific incident, we advise all mosques to keep their doors open but remain cautious, especially given the recent spike in anti-Muslim bigotry.”

In addition to his role as an imam, Hassan Sharif had been working as a Transportation Security Officer at Newark Liberty International Airport since 2006, according to local media reports.