Authorities said in a news conference that  Imam Hassan Sharif was found with multiple gunshot wounds outside his masjid, Masjid-Muhammad-Newark, before dawn.

He was taken to hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Governor Phil Murphy released a statement asking for anyone with information to come forward.

“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,” he said.

A $25,000 (£19,000) reward is being offered to anyone that comes forward with information about the shooting.