(CNN) A man suspected of killing a police officer and three people at a kosher market in Jersey City, New Jersey, was linked Wednesday to the Black Hebrew Israelite movement, a law enforcement official said.

David N. Anderson, 47, appeared to have a connection to the movement, although the extent of his involvement remains unclear, the law enforcement official told The New York Times

The Black Hebrew Israelite movement has a complex history in the United States, with sects and branches splintering into dozens of branches over theological and leadership disputes. The movement, which is now is best known for its confrontational brand of street preaching in urban areas, idates back to the 19th century.

What unites most Black Israelites is the belief that they are the true descendants of biblical Jews. Some sects within the movement disdain modern white Jews, experts say, claiming the mantle of the religion for themselves.

"Black Hebrew Israelites claim to be from the Twelve Tribes of Israel, who will one day be given dominion by God to rule over the Earth," said Heidi Beirich, director of the Southern Poverty Law Center's Intelligence Project.

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