Authorities in Newark stated Wednesday that a mosque Imam was shot and killed on South Orange Avenue and was rushed to a hospital in serious condition.
Sharif was discovered lying in the parking lot, 10 steps from the mosque door, when officials arrived.
The motive for the shooting of the Imam, Hassan Sharif, is being investigated.
According to local media sources, New Jersey's spokesperson also verified the deadly shooting of the Masjid Muhammad-Newark's Imam.
The Imam was rushed to the hospital in serious condition, where he was subsequently proclaimed dead.
According to the state's Attorney General, Matthew Plotkin, bias did not appear to be a motive for the shooting.
"This investigation is ongoing, but at this time we do not have any information suggesting the crime was motivated by bias," the statement added.
The Attorney General went on to say: "Every possible angle will, of course, be explored, and every lead will be fully investigated to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice."
Governor Phil Murphy asked people to come forward with any information they have regarding the attacker.
He went on to say: "At a time when the Muslim community is concerned by an increase in bias incidents and crimes, I want to assure the Muslim community and people of all faiths that we will do everything in our power to keep all residents safe, especially in or near our houses of worship."
The slain Imam has also served as a Transportation Security Officer at Newark Liberty International Airport since 2006, according to local media sources.