By: Richard L. Smith
Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé has reported a distressing incident that occurred early this morning, Wednesday, January 3.
Newark Police said at approximately 6:16 a.m., Newark Police responded to an emergency call at the intersection of South Orange Avenue and Camden Street, where a male was reportedly shot.
The victim has been identified as the Imam of the Masjid Muhammad mosque, located at 197 Camden Street.
According to several sources, the Imam was preparing to engage in the Fajr prayer, the first of the five daily prayers in Islam, when the attack occurred.
It is reported that a gunman approached during this time of spiritual reflection and opened fire.
Following the incident, the Imam was urgently transported to University Hospital. As of the latest updates, he is in critical condition, fighting for his life.
This shocking event has rattled the local community, particularly members of the Masjid Muhammad mosque, where the Imam serves as a spiritual leader.
The motive behind the attack is currently unknown, and the incident remains under active investigation by the Newark Police.
The Newark Police Department and local authorities are calling for anyone with information related to this incident to come forward as they work diligently to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and bring the perpetrator to justice.