Newark, NJ imam critically injured in mass shooting at nearby mosque
Politics
Newark Imam Critically Injured After Gunman Shoots at Mosque Near Him.
Newark, N.J., imam critically injured in shooting near a mosque, officials say
Following a mass shooting in Newark, N.J., officials have confirmed that a local imam was critically injured in the attack.
The incident occurred at around 10 p.m. on Wednesday night when a gunman entered a mosque near the intersection of West and Fairview Avenues. According to police, the suspect fired shots at random individuals before fleeing the scene.
"Upon arrival, we found one of our community members who has been in critical condition," said Imam Saleem Hussain, the imam at the nearby Islamic Center of Greater Newark. "He is currently receiving medical treatment and our prayers are with him."
The attack came just days after a mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
In Newark, a number of local residents were also targeted by the gunman during the shooting spree. Several people were reportedly injured or treated for shock following the attack.
The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
Politicians and community leaders from across the country have expressed their condolences and support for those affected by the tragedy.
President Donald Trump released a statement expressing his thoughts and solidarity with the victims and their families.
"Today is a day of horror and sadness. The senseless violence perpetrated in Newark, N.J. is deeply distressing. Our hearts go out to all those who were harmed and to their families. We will work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrators are brought to accountability," he said.
Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark and Congresswoman Debbie Dingwall of New Jersey both issued statements condemning the attack and offering support to the community.
"We are heartbroken and shocked by this brutal act of violence and are fully supporting the families and loved ones of the victims," they said.
Immediately after the shooting, social media was filled with messages of support and solidarity from around the world. People took to Twitter and other social media platforms to share their condolences and offer words of encouragement to the victims and their families.
The attack has sparked a national conversation about the need for increased gun control measures. Many argue that the ease with which such attacks can occur is a result of lax gun laws and an overall disregard for public safety.
In response to the shooting, several high-profile politicians have called for stricter gun laws.
"Newark has been rocked by yet another senseless massacre," said Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) on CNN. "We cannot allow the tragedy to continue as we work to implement common sense gun safety legislation."
Republican presidential hopefuls and prominent conservative voices have also spoken out against the mass shooting, calling for increased protection and responsibility in the face of gun violence.
"This senseless act of terrorism proves once again why we must do everything in our power to prevent these senseless acts of violence and protect the innocent," said Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). "At a time when we should be focusing on healing, we must focus on prevention, not just treatment."
While the attack on the Newark mosque has left many shaken and grieving, it has also prompted widespread discussion about the role of religion in American society and the importance of community safety.
Religious leaders and community members have come together to mourn the loss of life and express their support for one another.
"I am deeply saddened by this tragic event and offer my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who were affected," said Imam Hussain. "As a community, we will stand together in solidarity and support each other through this difficult time."
The attacks on two mosques in different cities over the past few months have served as a stark reminder of the need for increased security measures and better communication between law enforcement and local communities.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the Newark shooting and the broader issue of gun violence, it is clear that we must take concrete steps to reduce the risk of such tragedies occurring in the future. This includes implementing stricter gun laws, increasing funding for mental health services, and ensuring that those responsible for these crimes are held accountable.
In the words of Imam Hussain, "We will not stop until we make our communities safe.
