Local ties to New Zealand terror attack

SOUTH BEND, Ind – The Terrorist attack in New Zealand that killed 49 people has a Michiana connection.

Friday’s attack came when investigators say a racist gunman shot worshipers at a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand.

According to Imam Mohammad Sirajuddin of the “Islamic Society of Michiana” a worshiper at his mosque is connected to those killed and injured.

“One of our members here Dr. Adeela Ansari’s cousins son and husband’s son is believed to be dead and the husband they said is in the ICU,” Sirajuddin said.  

Imam Sirajuddin said him and his fellow worshipers are praying for all of the family and friends of those affected by the attack.

Sirjauddin also said the racism and Islamophobia behind the attack is felt in the local community and worldwide.

“It has an effect on people especially the Muslims living in America and the United Kingdom and other places,” Sirajuddin said.

Imam Sirajuddin said he and his fellow worshipers are heartbroken and he holds out hope that violent acts like Friday’s attack stops.

“We need to be promoting peace and mutual respect among the minorities such as the Jewish community and the Muslim community and African Americans in this country,” Sirajuddin said.