Local police and federal agents are investigating a shooting that took place Monday at an Islamic center in San Diego that left three victims and two suspects dead.
What Happened?
Police were called to the Islamic Center of San Diego, which includes a mosque and K-3 school, just before noon on Monday. Officers found three adults dead, including a security guard. No children at the center were harmed.
Almost simultaneously, officers responded to reports of gunfire a few blocks away. There, they discovered two teen suspects, both dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
The Suspects
Police described the two suspects as males aged 17 and 18. Officials have not named them, and it is unclear if they were local residents or had personal ties to the mosque. The types of weapons used have not been disclosed.
The mother of one suspect called police around 9:40 a.m. Monday, warning that her son had run away, might be suicidal, and had taken several of her weapons and her vehicle. She said her son left with a companion dressed in camouflage.
Police were sent to San Diego’s Fashion Valley Mall after license plate readers indicated the individuals were there. Officers also believe one suspect had a connection to San Diego’s Madison High School.
Multiple Crime Scenes
The three victims were discovered outside the Islamic Center, while the suspects were found a few blocks away on the 3800 block of Hatton Street, dead in their vehicle in the middle of the street.
By the time police arrived at the Islamic Center, the gunmen had allegedly left. Officers then received another call about shots fired at a landscaper nearby.
Hate Crime Investigation
Investigators are treating the shooting as a hate crime. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated, "Because of the Islamic Center location, we are considering this a hate crime until it's not."
Police said the suspects had not made a specific threat against the mosque, but there was evidence of "generalized hate rhetoric." Investigators found anti-Islamic writing in the vehicle, and the words 'hate speech' were written on a weapon used in the attack, according to law enforcement sources. One suspect reportedly left a suicide note discussing "racial pride," as per CNN.
The FBI has surged resources to the area, and federal officials including FBI Director Kash Patel and President Donald Trump have been briefed.
A Slain Security Guard Who Prevented Worse
Officials credited one victim, a security guard, with stopping more deaths. Chief Wahl said, "One of the deceased is a security guard that works there and I think played a pivotal role in assisting from this being much worse."
If you or someone you know needs mental health assistance, call or text 988 in the USA, or contact the Samaritans at 116 123 in the UK.
