POLICE have arrested a man in connection with the death of a popular Muslim shopkeeper in what is being treated as an alleged “religiously prejudiced” attack.

The 32-year-old is in custody following the death of Asad Shah in Glasgow last night.

Mr Shah, 40, was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital following the incident but was pronounced dead on arrival.

A popular shopkeeper in the Shawlands area of Glasgow, posted Easter greetings on his Facebook page hours before he died.

The message read: "Good Friday and a 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."

Locals, shocked at his death, have been laying flowers at the scene in tribute.

Julie McRea, whose son worked as a paperboy at the shop as a youngster, said: " I just can't believe it.

"He was just such a kind man. He helped out my family when my kids were having difficulty.

"He was a man of great wisdom. He'd send us all these amazing cards at Christmas and Easter with messages of peace.

"He helped my youngest daughter when he was having difficulty at school.

"I just can't believe this has happened in our area.

"He was a huge part of the community."

Another local, Sarah Gibbons, said Asad "did above and beyond what a shopkeeper should" for many people in the area.

She laid flowers at the scene near the tragedy and left a card saying 'A big thank you' in tribute.

She said: "He always delivered my aunty's paper and my nana's paper for years.

"He was the nicest man.

"I can't believe it. I cannot imagine what his family must be feeling.

"You couldn't ask for a nicer guy, I can't believe it has happened.

"Everyone loves him, everyone in the whole neighbourhood."

Locals are to hold a silent vigil tonight at 9pm to pay their respects to the shopkeeper.

A fund set up to support Mr Shah's family and cover his funeral costs has already raised more than £8,000 and recieved public support from influential figures such as Piers Morgan.