Mourners cry during a news conference in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Photo: Reuters
GRIFFITH'S Sikh community has been left reeling after a gunman opened fire on worshippers at a US temple on the weekend.
Griffith Sikh Temple leader Harnek Singh Dhansa said the local Sikh community had condemned the act, which was "sad and tragic".
Six people were shot dead at the Sikh temple near Milwaukee, Wisconsin in what is being described as an act of domestic terrorism.
The shooter was killed by police and his motives remain unclear.
Mr Dhansa said the tragedy was made worse by the fact that it happened in a religious place where people were praying and worshipping.
"The Sikhs are hardworking and honest people," Mr Dhansa said.
"I am hearing from my people that this is very unfortunate."
Mr Dhansa blamed the easy accessibility of guns in America for the massacre which is the second in just three weeks to shock the country.
However, he said he rarely experienced any racism or ill-will from Griffith residents.
"There is not really any racism, in general none at all," Mr Dhansa said.
"Most people, especially in Griffith, know everyone.
"We are hardworking people and everyone knows that here."
Mr Dhansa said the Sikh community would pray for the families of the American victims during the usual prayer session on Wednesday at the temple.