A devastating tragedy struck Southern California on Monday when a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego left three people dead, including a heroic security guard. The two suspects, aged 17 and 18, were later found dead in a nearby vehicle from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Authorities are actively investigating the attack as a hate crime. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed that “hate rhetoric” was involved in the incident.
Heroic Actions Prevented Further Tragedy
The shooting occurred outside the sprawling mosque complex, which also houses a school. According to police, the quick actions of an on-site security guard, who was tragically killed in the attack, undoubtedly saved lives by preventing the gunmen from entering the buildings.
“His actions were heroic, and he undoubtedly saved lives today,” Police Chief Wahl told reporters.
The mosque’s imam, Taha Hassane, confirmed that all staff, teachers, and children inside the school were unharmed. Expressing his grief, Hassane stated, “We have never experienced tragedy like this before… It is extremely outrageous to target a place of worship.”
Timeline of the Attack
Two Hours Prior: The mother of one of the suspects contacted police to report her son was suicidal and had taken her vehicle along with several weapons.
The Attack: Police responded to reports of an active shooter at the Islamic Center within four minutes, discovering three victims outside.
The Aftermath: Following a brief local lockdown, police discovered the suspects dead inside their vehicle a few blocks away. No officers fired their weapons.
Leadership Responds to Rising Islamophobia
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders. California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed horror, stating that hate has no place in the state and that California stands firmly with the San Diego Muslim community.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani labeled the shooting “an apparent act of anti-Muslim violence,” prompting the NYPD to increase security presence around New York mosques out of an abundance of caution.