Authorities seek hooded man in Newark imam's killing

Authorities in North Jersey are seeking to identify a hooded man seen near a Newark mosque shortly before Imam Hassan Sharif was shot and killed on January 3, 2024. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office released security footage of the man, described as a person of interest. Imam Sharif, 52, was shot outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark during morning prayer. He was known for advocating against gun violence in the community. No arrests have been made in connection with his death, although three men were charged with weapons offenses. A $35,000 reward is being offered for information leading to arrests in the case. Police have not found evidence suggesting the killing was motivated by anti-Muslim bias.