ARIZONA – The Arizona chapter of Council on American Islamic Relations is calling on law enforcement to investigate threats made against a newly-arrived Syrian refugee family in Tucson as a possible hate crime. 

The family reported spotting a hateful note taped to the front door of their home, stating “Go Away Killers” and “America hates terrorist (sic) like you!” 

The note also read “We do not like you living here!” and contains threatening language “Please move before danger can happen.” After reading the note, the family notified the apartment complex and police, who have responded and are investigating the incident.

Newly arrived from Syria just three months ago, the family of 4 are now staying with family friends and fear for their safety. 

The apartment complex plans on relocating the family to a different property to ensure their safety. They have left their belongings behind, however are afraid to return to the old apartment to collect them.

“This incident is extremely troubling, as it is not only vicious in nature – but also targets some of the most vulnerable people in the world, refugees,” said Imraan Siddiqi, CAIR-AZ’s Executive Director. “With increased levels of anti-Muslim hate, we must ensure that this incident is investigated from all angles, to ensure that this does not happen to anyone else.”

CAIR-AZ is asking Tucson police to investigate this act as a possible hate crime, in light of recent anti-Muslim incidents in recent days.