(JTA) — The Anti-Defamation League expressed its solidarity with New York’s Muslim community in the wake of the murder of an imam and his assistant leaving their mosque.

“We are shocked and horrified by this unthinkable tragedy and extend our sorrow and solidarity to the families of the victims and the broader Muslim community across New York City,” said Evan Bernstein, New York Regional director. “While the motivation for this crime is still being investigated, nothing can justify the killing of an innocent man walking from his place of worship.”

Bernstein called on the New York Police Department to investigate the murder as a possible bias crime.