Scotland police probe killing of Muslim shopkeeper who posted Facebook Easter message to Christians

FILE: A police officer stands outside the shop where Asad Shah worked in Glasgow. (AP)

A popular shopkeeper who wished Christians a happy Easter on Facebook was stabbed to death in what police in Scotland say was a “religiously prejudiced” attack carried out by a fellow Muslim, it was reported Saturday.

A vigil was held Friday night in Glasgow’s Shawlands neighborhood in memory of Asad Shah who was killed the day before-- a few hours after he apparently posted messages on Facebook that said “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,” one of the messages said.

Police said a 32-year-old man has been arrested in connection with Shah’s death. Police said the suspect is Muslim. He was not been identified.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joined the vigil in support of Shah and his family.

“Moved to be one of hundreds tonight as Shawlands united in grief for Asad Shah and support for his family,” Sturgeon tweeted afterward, the BBC reported Saturday.

According to the BBC, those attending the memorial were encouraged to bring a daffodil. Those at the gathering laid flowers and lit candles.

“It was very respectful,” vigil organizer Eildon Dyer told the BBC. “There were a lot of people clearly very upset. There were a lot of tears and lots and lots of flowers.”

Dyer added: "Everybody has said he was the nicest man. He was clearly much-loved. Everybody had nice stories to tell about him and warm stories. It's just very, very sad."

Scottish police promise a full investigation into Shah’s death.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.