Worshippers at the 96th Street Masjid, Islamic Center of New York, were left in shock today after an individual entered the mosque during Salah and attacked the Imam.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailant approached the Imam while prayers were in session and stabbed him twice. Worshippers quickly intervened, restraining the attacker until police arrived.

Law enforcement officers responded promptly to the incident, taking the suspect into custody. Details about the Imam’s condition have not yet been officially released, but community members have expressed deep concern and called for heightened security measures in places of worship.