Search For Beloved Imam’s Killer Continues In Newark; Cops Up Reward

NEWARK, NJ — A police investigation into the slaying of a religious leader in Newark continues more than six months after his death. And now, authorities have upped their reward for finding his killer.

In January, a shooter gunned down Hassan Sharif, 52, outside Masjid Muhammad-Newark Mosque, which is located at the corner of South Orange Avenue and Camden Street. Authorities said there was no indication that the shooting was a bias crime.

Sharif, who served as the imam of the mosque for five years, was also a proud advocate for non-violence in Newark. He was about to enter the mosque for morning prayers before the shooting. Read More: ‘Turn Yourself In’: Sorrow, Anger In Newark After Imam’s Slaying

Bereaved community members have continued to mourn the departed imam, recently holding a “Healing and Peace” rally where they demanded an update on the case. See Related: Mourners Of Slain Imam Rally In Newark 4 Months After His Death

After the shooting, the Essex County Sheriff's Crime Stoppers Program offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in the case. That reward has now been upped to $35,000, officials announced Tuesday.

Anyone with information can contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.