According to Patricia Socarras, the city's director of communications, a 52-year-old man was shot outside the Islamic Center of Rhode Island in Providence on Friday. The victim, who was selling Islamic goods, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was immediately transported from the scene. The Providence police chief, Col. Oscar L. Perez, stated during a news conference that they received a call about the shooting at 11:22 a.m.

Perez revealed that the victim had been at a table selling goods when he was shot in the buttocks while folding some of the items. He emphasized that those who commit violent crimes in the city will be held accountable and reassured the public that law enforcement authorities would provide security at the mosque to ensure everyone's safety.

The search for the suspect is currently ongoing, and no one is in custody. Authorities are investigating the motive for the shooting. Abdul-Latif Sackor, the Imam of the Islamic Center of Rhode Island, mentioned that the center has video footage showing a man waiting across the street for 20 minutes prior to the shooting. Sackor expressed his belief that the center was targeted and hopes that the police investigation will uncover more information.

The center has turned over the video to the police, who are now analyzing it to determine the motive behind the shooting. Providence police confirmed that they have received the footage and are considering whether the suspect had a personal vendetta or if there was another reason behind the attack.

Sackor expressed concern, stating that the center has not experienced this type of issue in years. He emphasized the center's intention to seek protection from the police and take measures to protect themselves as best as they can.

The shooting outside the Islamic Center of Rhode Island in Providence has prompted a search for the suspect, with authorities increasing patrols in the area. Given the recent surge in Islamophobia and antisemitism following the conflict between Israel and Hamas, there are concerns that the attack may be motivated by hatred or prejudice. However, the police have not provided any specific information regarding their focus on possible reasons for the shooting at this time.