The San Diego Police Department is investigating a suspicious device found near an Islamic Centre, leading to a bomb squad response and the detention of a man displaying a Nazi flag. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area as the situation unfolds.
Incident Details
On Thursday, June 18, around 11:40 a.m., San Diego police officers already present at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont noticed a suspicious vehicle. Upon stopping the vehicle, they detained the driver and observed a Nazi flag alongside a suspicious canister inside the car.
Immediately, officers requested the Metro Arson Strike Team to evaluate the suspicious item. The Joint Terrorism Task Force was also alerted and is collaborating with the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) on the investigation.
Community Response
Residents in the vicinity were instructed to shelter in place, while nearby shops were evacuated as a precaution. The SDPD later confirmed that no explosive material was found, and there is no active threat to the Islamic Center or the surrounding community.
In a statement on X, the San Diego Police Department said: "The San Diego Police Department remains on scene investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspicious device located at the intersection of Derrick Drive and Genesee Avenue. No explosive material was located and at this time there are no active threats to the Islamic Center of San Diego or the surrounding community."
Ongoing Investigation
Areas around the incident remain closed for further investigation, and traffic disruptions are expected for several more hours as detectives process evidence. Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area and use alternate routes.
The investigation is ongoing, with the SDPD and federal partners working to determine the motive and any potential connections to broader threats.
