A deadly shooting at a mosque in San Diego has shocked the local community after three people were killed in what police are investigating as a possible hate crime. Authorities say two teenage suspects later died from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds after the attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
Three Dead in San Diego Mosque Shooting
The shooting happened on Monday, May 18, at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Eckstrom Avenue. According to police, officers responded to the scene around 12:00 p.m. local time.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed during a press conference that investigators are treating the case as a hate crime.
“There was definitely hate rhetoric that was involved,” Wahl told reporters.
Police later announced that the threat had been “neutralized” after officers secured the area.
Teen Suspects Found Dead in Vehicle
Authorities said the two suspected shooters were aged 17 and 18. Their bodies were discovered inside a vehicle several blocks away from the mosque.
Police believe both suspects died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Their identities have not yet been publicly released.
According to reports, anti-Islamic writings were allegedly found inside the vehicle used by the suspects. Investigators are continuing to examine evidence to understand the motive behind the attack.
Mother Alerted Police Before Attack
Police revealed that one suspect’s mother contacted authorities shortly before the shooting. She reportedly informed officers that her son was missing along with several weapons.
Chief Wahl said the woman believed her son may have been suicidal.
“There was generalized hate speech,” Wahl explained during the briefing, adding that taking multiple weapons raised serious concerns.
However, police said there was no specific warning linked to a particular mosque or location before the attack occurred.
Security Guard Praised for Heroic Actions
One of the people killed in the shooting was a security guard working at the Islamic Center. Police praised the guard’s actions and said he likely prevented the tragedy from becoming even worse.
“His actions were heroic. Undoubtedly he saved lives today,” Wahl said.
Authorities did not publicly release the identity of the security guard.
No Children Injured During Attack
Police confirmed that no children were injured during the shooting. A reunification centre was later established at Hathaway Street to help families reconnect safely after the incident.
Emergency services and investigators remained at the scene for several hours while authorities secured the area and collected evidence.
Islamic Center Releases Emotional Statement
The Islamic Center of San Diego announced that the mosque would remain closed until further notice following the tragedy.
In a public statement, the mosque described the shooting as an “extremely painful and traumatic day” for the community.
The centre also said counselling services would be provided for anyone affected by the attack and requested that people avoid spreading rumours while the investigation continues.
“Places of worship are meant to be spaces of peace, prayer, reflection, and community. Violence and hatred have no place in our society,” the statement said.
San Diego Mayor Responds to Tragedy
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also shared condolences following the deadly shooting.
“Today, our city was shaken by a violent act of hate at the Islamic Center of San Diego,” Gloria said.
He added that nobody should ever feel unsafe inside a place of worship or learning.
The heartbreaking incident has once again raised concerns about hate crimes, religious violence, and public safety in community spaces across the United States.
