Attack on Muslim Woman Sparks Outrage
A Muslim woman was shot in Capitol Heights, Prince George’s County, on Monday afternoon, and her family is urging police to classify the attack as a hate crime. They believe she was targeted because she was wearing a niqab, a traditional Muslim veil that covers the face, while running errands.
The shooting occurred around 1 p.m. in the 500 block of Ritchie Road. Authorities confirmed the suspect fled the scene, and detectives are interviewing witnesses as the investigation continues.
Victim’s Ordeal
The woman’s brother described the harrowing moments when the gunman opened fire on her minivan.
“She’s still going through the shock of what happened,” he said. “When it started, she thought it was a dream. She didn’t believe it was real until the glass shattered and she saw blasts coming from the gun.”
The victim was struck in her left arm. Her brother believes the shooter may have been aiming for her head.
“After she realized she was being shot at, she used her arm to cover her head,” he said. “Thank God she had the courage and strength to duck in that moment.”
Shattered glass from her vehicle was still visible in the parking lot of the shopping center where the attack took place.
Community Response
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is demanding that police treat the shooting as a hate crime.
“Especially in this political climate, where we’re seeing an increase in violence targeting minority and faith communities, this attack must be taken seriously,” said Zainab Chaudry, CAIR’s Maryland director. “This woman was visibly Muslim, wearing a face veil, and the attack appeared unprovoked. We want to ensure every possibility is explored and that justice is pursued to the fullest extent of the law.”
Chaudry added that the assault has sent shockwaves through the wider Muslim community.
“It doesn’t just affect the victim,” she said. “Our office has received calls from people questioning if they should change the way they dress or go about their daily routines. Nobody should have to fear for their safety simply because of their faith or appearance.”
Family Seeks Justice
The victim’s family said their priority is ensuring the shooter is caught before he harms anyone else.
“We want the perpetrator apprehended and brought to justice before he commits a more serious crime,” her brother said. “This could have been his first attempt. Next time, it could be something larger. It could happen to anybody.”
Investigation Ongoing
Prince George’s County police said the case is still being investigated and has not yet been classified as a hate crime. Detectives are gathering evidence and seeking tips from the public.
To encourage leads, CAIR has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Broader Concerns
The case highlights ongoing fears about faith-based violence in the United States, particularly against visibly Muslim women. Advocates stress that ensuring accountability in such cases not only delivers justice for the victim but also reassures communities that they are protected under the law.
For now, the woman continues to recover from her injuries while her family and community await answers.
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