Deadly Shooting at San Diego Mosque Investigated as Hate Crime

(MENAFN) Three men were killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday, while two teenage suspects were also found dead, according to law enforcement officials. Authorities said the incident is being treated as a possible hate crime.

Police responded to reports of an active shooter at the mosque in San Diego’s Clairemont area shortly before noon local time. A major emergency operation was launched around the site before officials later announced that the situation had been contained.

Investigators believe one of the victims was a security guard who played what authorities described as a “pivotal role” in preventing the attack from becoming “much worse,” according to reports citing police sources.

The mosque complex also includes a school facility, though officials confirmed that no students, teachers, or staff members were harmed. Footage from the area reportedly showed children being escorted away from the scene while officers secured the surroundings.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said the two suspects, aged 17 and 19, appeared to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. He emphasized that officers did not fire their weapons during the incident and noted that the investigation remained in its early stages.

Local and state officials said emergency personnel were focused on protecting the community and ensuring public safety, while California authorities confirmed that the governor had been briefed on the attack.

The shooting has intensified concerns over rising violence targeting religious communities in the United States.

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