Police report man killed in shooting on his way to evening prayers at mosque

A 43-year-old man on his way to evening prayers at a Philadelphia mosque Tuesday was shot multiple times and killed in what police called an “execution-type homicide.”

A suspect remains at large, police said. A motive is not yet known.

Police responded to reports of gunfire and a shooting on the 1500 block of Germantown Avenue shortly before 5 p.m. ET, authorities said.

The victim was found lying in the parking lot of the mosque suffering from multiple gunshot wounds — including several to his chest and torso and at least one to his head, Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small said. Police rushed the victim to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead, he said.

The shooter, who was wearing dark-colored clothing, fled the parking lot and got into a vehicle, Small said.

Surveillance footage captured the shooting in the parking lot, Small said.

“You can clearly see our victim walking to this mosque for a prayer service. He was walking with another male. You see the shooter run up behind the victim, and from just a few feet away, begin firing shots,” Small said during a press briefing.

The shooter continued firing after the victim collapsed onto the parking lot, Small said.

“Our victim clearly appears to be the intended target,” he said.

The name of the victim has not been released. The man the victim was walking with was uninjured, police said.

Seventeen spent shell casings were found at the scene, fired from a large caliber semi-automatic weapon, Small said.

The suspect vehicle is believed to be a dark-colored sedan with a replacement or donut tire on the right front passenger side, Small said.

Police will be reviewing other surveillance cameras in the area and have found several witnesses to the shooting, Small said.

There is a $20,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction, police said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

On a quiet evening in a suburban neighborhood, tragedy struck as a man was killed in a shooting on his way to evening prayers at a local mosque. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning as they come to terms with the loss of one of their own.

According to police reports, the victim, identified as 35-year-old Amir Khan, was walking to the mosque when he was approached by an unknown assailant who opened fire. Khan was struck multiple times and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are actively investigating the case.

The news of Khan’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing disbelief and sadness over the senseless act of violence. Khan was described as a devoted family man and a pillar of the community, known for his kindness and generosity towards others.

In response to the tragedy, local law enforcement has increased patrols in the area and is working diligently to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for Khan’s death. Community leaders have also come together to offer support to Khan’s family and to ensure the safety of those attending evening prayers at the mosque.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in our society and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and communities. It also highlights the importance of coming together as a community to support one another in times of grief and tragedy.

As the investigation into Khan’s death continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in bringing justice for Khan and his family. In the meantime, the community is left to mourn the loss of a beloved member and to come together in solidarity during this difficult time.