Vigil Held for Muslim Man Murdered after 'Happy Easter' Wishes
Hundreds gathered for a vigil in honor of a U.K. Muslim man who was murdered after he posted "Happy Easter" on his Facebook page.
Asad Shah died in the hospital after he was found seriously injured outside his shop on Thursday night, reports Premier, a U.K.-based Christian publication.
The incident happened hours after he wished his customers a Happy Easter.
"Upcoming special event; -Good Friday and very happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation ....let's follow the real footstep of beloved Holy Jesus Christ and get the real success in both worlds xxx," the message posted to his account said.
A 32-year-old Muslim man has been arrested in connection with his death. Meanwhile, Shah's hometown of Glasgow took part in a silent vigil this week to honor his life.
BBC reports that First Minister Nicola Sturgeon took part in the vigil and tweeted afterwards: "Moved to be one of hundreds tonight as Shawlands united in grief for Asad Shah and support for his family."
Those attending were encouraged to bring a daffodil. Hundreds of people came and laid flowers and lit candles during the gathering.
Residents told BBC Scotland they were shocked and saddened by Mr. Shah's death and described the shopkeeper as a "gentleman."
"I've known him since I was a wee boy so this is shocking news," said his childhood friend Omar Khan.
"He was a very straight-forward, humble person who was very good with his customers. He cared about his family a lot," he added.
Isabella Graham told BBC that Mr. Shah employed her daughter at the shop when she was younger.
"He was an amazing, wonderful man. He couldn't do enough for you," she said.
A fund-raising page set up on the GoFundMe website has been set up to support Mr. Shah's family. In two days close to $63,000 has been raised.
