Mosques ask for more police patrols, warn members to be vigilant after Fort Hood rampage

Associated Press

Last update: November 6, 2009 - 1:00 PM

STERLING, Va. - U.S. mosques fearful of a backlash after the shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas are stepping up security.

The man accused of opening fire at Fort Hood, Texas in a rampage that left 13 people dead and dozens wounded is Muslim.

A board member at All Dulles Area Muslim Society in Sterling, Va., contacted local police to ask for extra patrols. Friday is Islam's main communal prayer day.

In the Chicago area, the Islamic Society of Northwest Suburbs of Chicago sent e-mails asking Muslims to be more careful.

The Mosque Foundation president in Bridgeview says he's called police to put them on high alert. Zaher Sahloul (ZAH'-hair suh-LOOL') says he fears something could be done to Muslims because of "misguided anger."

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