Three men were killed in a shooting on Monday (May 18) at the Islamic Center of San Diego, in what authorities are investigating as a possible hate crime, according to San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl.
Police said both suspects are dead. Chief Wahl stated that investigators believe the two suspects were teenagers, though their identities and exact ages have not yet been released.
The shooting unfolded at the Islamic Center in the Clairemont neighborhood, about 9 miles north of downtown San Diego. The mosque is the largest in San Diego County and serves as a major religious and community center for the region’s Muslim population.
Authorities have not disclosed how the suspects died or whether they were killed during a confrontation with law enforcement. Earlier in the day, officials confirmed multiple people had been shot inside the complex.
AP stated a police source, speaking anonymously because they were not authorized to discuss the investigation publicly, confirmed that both suspects were deceased by Monday evening.
Heavy law enforcement presence and evacuation of children
Television aerial footage showed a massive law enforcement presence surrounding the mosque complex, with streets blocked off and tactical officers securing the area. More than a dozen children were seen being escorted from the parking lot while holding hands under police supervision.
The mosque campus includes the Al Rashid School, which offers instruction in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and Quranic education. It remains unclear whether students or school personnel were among the victims or witnesses.
Neighborhood on alert during investigation
The neighborhood surrounding the mosque includes homes, apartment buildings, and businesses, including Middle Eastern restaurants and markets. Residents were urged to avoid the area while investigators processed the scene.
Mayor Todd Gloria said in a statement on X that he was receiving updates from law enforcement throughout the incident.
Mayor Todd Gloria monitors situation
“I am aware of the active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont and am continuing to receive updates from law enforcement. Emergency personnel are on scene and actively working to protect the community and secure the area,” the mayor wrote.
Governor Gavin Newsom briefed
The office of Gavin Newsom also confirmed the governor was being briefed on developments.
“We are grateful to the first responders on the scene working to protect the community and urge everyone to follow guidance from local authorities,” the governor’s office posted on X.
The Islamic Center campus also includes the Al Rashid School, which offers courses in Arabic language, Islamic studies. It was not immediately clear whether students or school staff were present during the incident.
Investigation continues into motive and suspects
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting and whether additional suspects may have been involved. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area while the investigation remains active.
Further updates are expected as police release additional information about victims, the suspect, and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
