Pakistanis in Brooklyn are mourning the death of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and wondering about the future of their homeland.

Stores along Coney Island Avenue in Midwood closed Friday at noon to mourn Bhutto. Residents say they are especially saddened by Bhutto?s death because she visited the Pakistani neighborhood only two months ago.

On Friday afternoon, residents in the Little Pakistan area of Brooklyn gathered for a prayer service that was attended by a large crowd of supporters, many of whom had to stand outside on the sidewalk and street.

?When Benazir came she met with the people,? said Mohammad Razvi, a community leader. ?She expressed her views and people liked her so much and supported her all the way. Even the different parties that were represented, they also supported her.?

In the wake of increased violence as a result of Bhutto?s assassination, residents say they have been calling loved ones in Pakistan to inquire about their safety.

Recent reports from Pakistan claim Bhutto died of a skull fracture when she hit her head following the suicide bomb blast.

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