In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, an imam was shot and critically wounded outside a mosque in Newark, New Jersey on Wednesday morning. The shooting occurred at approximately 6:15 a.m. near the intersection of Camden Street and South Orange Avenue, leaving the imam in critical condition. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene and the victim was rushed to University Hospital for immediate medical attention.

Law enforcement officers could be seen posted outside the entrance to Masjid Muhammad mosque hours after the incident, ensuring the safety of the area. Police have confirmed that the victim is the imam of the mosque, adding another layer of concern to this tragic event. The mosque, formerly known as Temple #25, has been a pillar of the community since its founding in 1975. It also houses the Clara Mohammed School-Newark, catering to students from kindergarten to twelfth grade.

Imam Hassan Sharif, according to a person who answered the door at the mosque, is the victim of this heinous crime. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are actively investigating the incident. The Newark Department of Public Safety is leaving no stone unturned, working diligently to uncover any leads that may shed light on the perpetrator's identity and motive.

The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-N.J.) has expressed deep concern over the incident and is actively gathering information. They have called for anyone with knowledge of the shooting to come forward and assist the authorities in their investigation. In a statement, CAIR-N.J. said, "We are deeply concerned about this incident and pray for the speedy recovery of the imam. Anyone with information about the shooting should immediately contact local police."

This tragic event comes just months after another imam was stabbed while leading prayer at the Omar Mosque in Paterson, which is approximately 15 miles north of Newark. The suspect in that case, Serif Zorba, was arrested on charges including attempted murder. These incidents highlight the vulnerability faced by religious leaders and the urgent need for increased security measures to protect places of worship.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, CBS New York's Christina Fan has arrived at the scene and will provide a live update on the latest developments. The community anxiously awaits answers and hopes for a swift recovery for Imam Hassan Sharif. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.