Masked gunman fires at Utah imam during Ramadan
A masked gunman opened fire on a Muslim leader outside his home in Utah on Monday evening, authorities said. No injuries were reported, and the suspect remains at large.
The target was Shuaib Din, imam of the Utah Islamic Center, the state’s largest mosque. The shooting occurred as Din was leaving his suburban Salt Lake City home to attend evening prayers during Ramadan, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.
Din said a man wearing a mask and hoodie exited a vehicle and fired multiple shots at his car. After Din called 911 and attempted to get the license plate number, the suspect allegedly returned and fired at least eight more rounds before fleeing. Bullets struck the windshield and seats, but Din was unharmed.
Police released images of a white passenger car believed to be linked to the attack. No arrests have been made.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and called for increased protection for Din and the Muslim community.
Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski said officials were “deeply troubled,” noting the shooting took place during the holy month of Ramadan. Din said he does not know the motive but believes it may have been a hate crime.
