Attempted Shooting of Utah Islamic Center Leader Investigated as Possible Hate Crime
Sandy, Utah – A gunman opened fire on Imam Shuaib Din, the leader of the Utah Islamic Center, on Monday evening, February 24, 2026, as he left his home in a Salt Lake City suburb. The shooting is being investigated as a possible hate crime.
Details of the Attack
Imam Din, who heads Utah’s largest mosque, was unharmed in the incident, though his vehicle sustained multiple gunshot wounds [Salt Lake Tribune]. The attack occurred during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting and prayer.
According to Din, the gunman was waiting in a car outside his home and appeared to be familiar with his routine. “He knew my house, knew my car, knew my schedule,” Din told the Salt Lake Tribune [Salt Lake Tribune]. Din had just finished breaking his fast with his family and was preparing to return to the mosque for evening prayers when the shooting began.
The gunman, described as wearing a mask and hoodie, initially fired multiple shots as Din drove away. After calling 911, Din attempted to acquire the suspect’s license plate number, at which point the gunman reportedly pulled alongside his vehicle and fired at least eight more shots, striking the front and rear seats and the windshield [TRT World], [KUTV].
Investigation and Response
The Sandy Police Department is investigating the shooting and is utilizing all available resources, including collaboration with the FBI [Salt Lake Tribune]. No suspect has been taken into custody as of February 25, 2026 [TRT World].
Imam Din expressed concern for the safety of his congregation and the broader Muslim community in Utah [KUTV]. The Utah Islamic Center serves a congregation of nearly 1,000 people [KUTV].
Community Reaction
The shooting has prompted widespread concern and condemnation. Civil rights groups and community leaders have called for heightened protection for Muslim institutions and individuals in the wake of the attack [TRT World].
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.