The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) today renews its call for justice following the recent release of a video by authorities showing a potential suspect involved in the tragic killing of Imam Hassan Sharif.
WATCH VIDEO: Surveillance video shows possible ‘person of interest’ in murder of Imam in Newark
Imam Sharif, a respected community leader, was fatally shot outside Masjid Muhammad in Newark on January 3, 2024, while preparing to lead Fajr (pre-dawn) prayers.
The release of this new footage marks a potential significant development in the investigation, and CAIR-NJ is urging the public to closely examine the video and come forward with any information that could assist in identifying the person responsible for this senseless act of violence.
READ MORE: Authorities seek public’s help identifying a person of interest in the fatal shooting of Imam Hassan Sharif outside a Newark mosque in January 2024.
In a statement, CAIR-New Jersey Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“We welcome that law enforcement is taking steps to move this investigation forward, but we remain deeply concerned that the person responsible for Imam Hassan Sharif’s murder has still not been brought to justice.
The video provides a long-awaited lead, and we hope the public will step up to help bring closure to this heartbreaking case.
Imam Hassan Sharif was a respected and deeply revered pillar of his Newark community, and it is crucial that justice is served. This release of the video is an important step in ensuring that the person who took his life is held accountable. We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
Imam Sharif was shot outside the mosque as he prepared to lead early morning prayers, and he died later that day in the hospital. His death has left the Newark Muslim community in mourning and has heightened concerns about the safety of Muslims in the area, especially amid rising incidents of anti-Muslim violence.
In response to the killing, CAIR-NJ and CAIR National offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator. This reward is separate from the $25,000 offered by Essex Crime Stoppers.
CAIR-NJ continues to stand in solidarity with Imam Sharif’s family, his congregation, and the Newark Muslim community, and will not rest until justice is served.
“We pray for Imam Sharif’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” CAIR-New Jersey Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi said. “We also urge law enforcement to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses and to continue their efforts in bringing the responsible party to justice.”
Anyone with information about the suspect shown in the released video is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or submit tips online at Newark Public Safety.
CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, 551-208-5482, aelamroussi@cair.com.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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