Imam Sharif's tragic death comes as state leaders today also announced a significant milestone in public safety, unveiling data showing a historic low in gun violence for 2023 across New Jersey with the fewest shooting victims recorded since the state began tracking it 15 years ago.

According to state police statistics, 924 individuals were shot in New Jersey last year.

That's down 13% from a year prior.

And the first time the number of shooting victims is under 1000 since 2009.

Homicides also declined down 8% over the previous year.

Governor Murphy, Attorney General Matt Platkin and State Police Colonel Pat Callahan today also pointed to data showing shooting victims declined in New Jersey's largest cities, including Trenton, Newark, Atlantic City and Paterson, where the attorney general's office took control of the police department last March.

Officials touted community violence, intervention programs and reduction task forces for the progress.

These community based organizations have helped mediate disputes so they don't spill over into violence, and they have provided thoughtful, compassionate support to survivors of gun violence.

And in doing so, they have proven that a community oriented strategy is the most effective way to address the roots of gun violence and make our cities safer for everyone.