NEWARK, N.J. — The fatal shooting of Imam Hassan Sharif outside a mosque in Newark, New Jersey, has prompted a search for the shooter, with authorities stating that there is no evidence yet pointing to an anti-Muslim bias as a motive for the attack. The shooting occurred before dawn on Wednesday, as Sharif sat in his car near the Masjid-Muhammad Mosque, the state’s largest city.
Despite the global events and rise in bias directed at various communities, particularly the Muslim community, Attorney General Matt Platkin emphasized that there is no evidence at this point to suggest that Sharif’s killing was driven by a bias against Muslims. He also mentioned the increased outreach to houses of worship, particularly Jewish and Muslim ones, amid tensions unfolding in many parts of the world due to the fighting in Gaza.
A resident imam at the local mosque for five years, Sharif was remembered by Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé as a leader in the interfaith community who worked to maintain the city’s safety. The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations described Sharif as a “beacon of leadership and excellence,” cautioning all mosques to remain cautious while keeping their doors open.
In response to the shooting, officials reached out to Muslim communities in Newark and across the state, expressing a commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. With approximately 320,000 Muslim residents in New Jersey, Platkin urged community members to report any concerns and ensure a swift response to any potential threats.
Authorities are actively investigating the shooting, and efforts are being made to provide support and reassurance to the Muslim community in the wake of this tragedy. As investigations continue, the community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Sharif’s tragic death has left the community mourning the loss of a respected leader, but efforts are underway to address concerns and ensure the safety and security of all residents.