Authorities, in a news conference, indicated that they do not believe the killing was driven by domestic terrorism or bias.
Imam Sharif was discovered outside his mosque with multiple gunshot wounds and was subsequently taken to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin stated that current evidence does not suggest bias or domestic terrorism as motives for the attack.
Platkin acknowledged that such preliminary information is usually not disclosed early in the investigative process but cited the need to address rising concerns within the Muslim community. He reassured residents, especially those in or near places of worship, of the authorities' commitment to ensuring safety.
Governor Phil Murphy released a statement urging anyone with information to come forward and assured the Muslim community, as well as people of all faiths, that measures would be taken to enhance safety, particularly around houses of worship.
Imam Sharif, who also worked as a transportation security officer at Newark Liberty International Airport, was described by the New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations as a "beacon of leadership and excellence."
Senator Cory Booker expressed his condolences, stating he was "heartbroken" by the imam's death and expressing solidarity with the Masjid Muhammad members and the broader Muslim community in New Jersey. (ILKHA)