PATERSON, N.J. (1010 WINS) — A New Jersey imam was stabbed during Sunday morning prayers, according to reports.
The assailant, who was allegedly a member of the congregation at the Omar Mosque on Getty Avenue in South Paterson, was quickly restrained by other worshipers, officials told NorthJersey.com.
It wasn't immediately clear what sparked the stabbing.
A source told PIX11 that the suspected attacker "just got up and started stabbing him" just before 6 a.m. The suspect's identity hasn't been released at this time.
The imam, Sayed Elnakib, was in stable condition at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, officials said.
Paterson Public Safety Director Jerry Speziale told NorthJersey.com that he expected charges would be filed against the suspect later Sunday.
Councilman AL Abdelaziz, who represents the city's 6th Ward, where the stabbing occurred, said, "I was deeply saddened to hear about the stabbing incident that took place during prayer at Omar's mosque earlier this morning, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this tragic event."
"While it is unclear what motivated the attacker, there is no justification for violence of any kind, especially in a sacred space," Abdelaziz added. "I am relieved to hear that Imam Sayed Elnakib is in stable condition and wish him a full and speedy recovery. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time."
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