Funeral prayer held for Newark Imam Hassan Sharif, gunned down outside his mosque
NEWARK, N.J. -- Saturday morning, Newark's Muslim community laid to rest a beloved imam, as the search continues for his killer.
At the NIA Masjid and Community Center, mourners bid a final farewell to Imam Hassan Sharif. The service focused on Sharif's service and dedication as leader of Newark's Masjid Muhammad over the past five years.
Outside, his followers also acknowledged the gunman responsible for his death.
"He was killed as he attempted to fulfill his duty to Allah and his community," said Masjid Muhammad chief custodian Dr. Tony Al Amin. "Whoever shot him believed he was ending his life, but in fact, he has prolonged it among us."
Sharif was shot as he left early morning prayer at his mosque on Wednesday. Relatives said this was not the first time the imam was attacked, but in August he was able to chase his assailant away after a fight.
Investigators are still searching for surveillance video that shows Wednesday's attack clearly, but they do not believe anti-Muslim bias was a motivating factor. Still, Sharif's community is taking care of itself with its own patrols. Members of the Muslim Community Patrol and Services unit were outside the funeral Saturday.
"I cannot describe how it makes us feel knowing how many lives he touched," said Sharif's daughter Tanasia Ransom, "and to the killer, they'll find you. I'm sure of it."
"May this individual be compensated for their actions that have torn at our hearts in the way that Allah sees best," added Al Amin. "As for us as Masjid Muhammad, we will continue to come together as sisters and brothers, because that is what our beloved imam taught us."
Through this tragedy, the community vows to continue carrying the legacy of their leader in their hearts, living a life of service without fear.
Essex County Crime Stoppers has offered a $25,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest. CAIR New Jersey has added an additional $10,000 on top of that.
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