The Anti-Defamation League is expressing solidarity with New York City’s Muslim community in the wake of the fatal shootings of the leader of a mosque and a friend as they left afternoon prayers in Queens.

The organization says that while the motive for the crime is still unknown, nothing can justify the killing of two men walking from their place of worship.

It is urging the NYPD to investigate the shootings as a possible bias crime.

The ADL fights anti-Semitism around the world through programs and services.

Police were searching Sunday for the suspect who killed 55-year-old Imam Maulama Akonjee and 64-year-old Thara Uddin. The shooter approached them from behind as they left the Al-Furqan Jame Masjid mosque shortly before 2 p.m. Saturday.

Police have not announced a motive.

(AP)