Hundreds Attend Homegoing for Imam Hassan Sharif Shot Outside Newark Mosque

This article is written by Hamil R. Harris, NJUN Guest Author

A spokesperson for the Essex County prosecutor’s office said based on available evidence, the murder does not appear to be a result of bias or domestic terrorism. And while many in the community agree, most believe the motive of the shooting rests with the continued crisis of violence that has struck their neighborhood.

“Unfortunately, this is the latest casualty of the gun violence epidemic that continues to plague our state and the country,” said the Essex County prosecutor during a recent press conference, adding, “we will bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka echoed the prosecutor’s comments.

“We don’t yet know all the details, but here is what we do know: Imam Hassan Sharif stood with the people of this city, and we will stand with him and his family,” Baraka said in a statement. “None of us has to know the details about this shooting to condemn it. Any act of violence, any killing or harming of any person, is never okay – no matter what precipitates or motivates such a depraved act.”

The mosque bears a proud history and traces its roots to 1958 when the former vaudeville theater was converted into Temple No. 25 – the first Nation of Islam [NOI] mosque to open in Newark – known to have members who were more active and loyal than NOI members in other larger cities.

As for the late imam, he was a well-known figure in Newark, who often stood with city leaders and delivered prayers at council meetings. Shariff had also served as a transposrtation security officer at Newark Liberty International Airport since 2006.

While the investigation continues, which is being handled in concert by both the Newark Police Department and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Council on American-Islamic Relations has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading an arrest. Essex County Crime Stoppers has also offered a $25,000 reward. Those with information are urged to call the Newark Police Department’s 24-hour tip hotline at 877-NWK TIPS.

Gov. Philip D. Murphy (D) said in a statement that the incident comes at a time when there is an “increase of bias incidents and crimes” that have many Muslims on edge. He added that the state will work to keep all residents safe, especially in and around houses of worship.

New Jersey is the home to an estimated 320,000 Muslim-Americans.

Wahy-ud Deen Shareef, leader of the Council of Imams in New Jersey, said Sharif was well known for being a community leader and head of the oldest mosque in New Jersey.
Sharif worked at the mosque for the last five years, building a reputation for being an activist committed to ending gun violence in Newark.

Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr. (10th Congressional District, NJ) issued the following statement.
“I was shocked and saddened to hear of the murder of Imam Hassan Sharif. Imam Sharif was a kind man and a pillar of the greater Newark community. He was always there to help those in need. I was impressed with his strong work to help and feed the homeless and give second chances to people who suffered from drug and alcohol addiction.

While law enforcement officials have said this is not a hate crime or domestic terrorism, it is another horrible example of America’s gun violence epidemic. I have been a strong advocate for more gun restrictions in this county because we are losing great people, like Imam Sharif, to this national tragedy.”

While the investigation continues, which is being handled in concert by both the Newark Police Department and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Council on American-Islamic Relations has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading an arrest. Essex County Crime Stoppers has also offered a $25,000 reward. Those with information are urged to call the Newark Police Department’s 24-hour tip hotline at 877-NWK TIPS.

Alongside the Newark Muslim community, CAIR-NJ is praying for the Imam, his family and loved ones, and his congregation, and asks everyone to do the same. CAIR-NJ has also advised all mosques to keep their doors open but remain cautious especially given the recent spike in anti-Muslim bigotry. CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice and empower American Muslims.

After Sharif’s funeral, he was laid to rest at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover, New Jersey.