Houston Mosque Struck by Bullets Amidst Ramadan Event
The Alnoor Masjid on Prestwood Drive was struck by three bullets on Friday evening while nearly 100 congregants were in prayer, an event captured on video as it was being live-streamed, ABC13 reported on Sunday.
Zahoor Gire, the mosque's executive director, recounted the harrowing experience: "All of a sudden during the event we heard gunshots."
Initially, the incident was feared to be a hate crime, especially given the heightened tensions from the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza and the commencement of Ramadan, a sacred period for the Muslim community.
However, the Houston Police Department has said that the gunfire was linked to an unrelated dispute in the vicinity.
"The community is already on edge as it is," Gire said.
He said the police reporting was a “huge relief” for the community. “Our priority is always for the safety of our community members, we want them to feel safe this is a place of worship."
Despite no injuries, the incident has left the congregation disturbed, prompting calls for increased patrols in the area.
"It is very concerning. Again we are praying for everyone and the area does require more patrols. We are in talks with HPD, and they said they will provide us with more safety and security during Ramadan," Gire said.
Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation between two groups not associated with the mosque. The situation escalated to gunfire, and the individuals involved dispersed shortly after.
As the Muslim community prepares for the start of Ramadan this Sunday evening, mosque leaders are encouraging resilience and vigilance among their members.
The investigation into the specific cause of the disturbance continues.
There has been a significant rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes across the United States since the start of Israeli war on Gaza in October last year.
Source: Agencies
