Arabic version: إطلاق نار في مسجد سان دييغو يُحقق فيه كجريمة كراهية
Three people have been killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, California, which officials believe was perpetrated by two teenage attackers. The shooting took place on Monday morning as officers were investigating a call about a possibly suicidal teen who had run away from home. At 11:43 local time, police were called to a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, and found three victims who had been shot in the front of the building. Shortly after, they received another call that shots had been fired nearby at a landscaper from a vehicle. When officers arrived at the second scene, they found the suspects – ages 17 and 18 – dead of self-inflicted wounds.
Among the deceased victims was a security guard who worked at the center and heroically prevented more people from dying, officials said without providing further details. The incident is being investigated as a hate crime, according to the FBI, due to writings found by one of the suspect’s mother. Police Chief Scott Wahl noted that the suspects’ actions did not align with typical suicidal behavior, and a note left behind included general hate rhetoric. While the motive is still under investigation, the mosque’s prominence and location raise suspicions of a hate-driven attack.
Children were present at the Islamic Center during the shooting, as it also houses the Al Rashid School. Aerial footage captured children being escorted away from the scene as police responded. Nearby schools were placed on lockdown as a precaution. Witnesses reported hearing up to 30 gunshots, with one describing the sound of a semi-automatic weapon.
In response to the shooting, California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed horror at the attack, emphasizing that acts of terror against communities of faith would not be tolerated. Imam Taha Hassane condemned the targeting of a place of worship, asserting that the facility is a house of worship, not a battlefield. The Muslim community is currently preparing for Eid al-Adha, one of its holiest celebrations, making the incident particularly distressing for local families.
According to BBC News, the investigation continues as the FBI seeks public assistance in gathering more information related to the case.
