The imam of a mosque was shot and died at South Orange Avenue, according to Newark authorities, and he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Sharif was discovered unconscious in the parking lot, ten feet from the mosque’s door, when the police arrived on the scene.
An investigation is being conducted to determine the reason behind the imam’s shooting, identified as Hassan Sharif.
A spokesman for New Jersey reportedly verified the shooting death of the imam of Masjid Muhammad-Newark, according to reports in the local media.
After being admitted to the hospital in critical condition, the imam was eventually pronounced dead.
Bias did not seem to be the driving force behind the shooting, according to state Attorney General Matthew Plotkin.
“This investigation is ongoing, but at this time we do not have any information suggesting the crime was motivated by bias,” Plotkin stated in a statement.
The Attorney General added: “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 encouraged everyone to come forward with any information they may have about the gunman.
