Pascrell Condemns Monstrous Murder of Newark Imam

Shooting during NJ’s first official Muslim Heritage Month highlights need for increased security at houses of worship

PATERSON, NJ – U.S. Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) today condemned the cold-blooded killing of Imam Hassan Sharif, who was shot earlier this morning outside the Masjid Muhammad Mosque in Newark.

“This is an absolute tragedy,” said Congressman Pascrell. “For years Imam Hassan Sharif has spread messages of hope and peace throughout our North Jersey communities to combat the despicable rise in Islamophobia and hate. Now more than ever we must help carry on the imam’s teachings. Now more than ever we must invest in the security of our houses of worship. And now more than ever we must stamp out hate whenever and wherever it appears. I pray for the imam, his loved ones, the community, and the entire Masjid Muhammad Mosque family.”