Three people were killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego in the Clairemont area in southern California. Two suspects are dead.
The San Diego Police Department said officers responded to the Islamic Center, located in the 7000 block of Eckstrom Avenue, after reports of an active shooter around midday. Police later said the threat had been "neutralized." The shooting occurred on the first day of Dhul Hijjah, the first day of the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is one of the four holiest months in the religion.
The Associated Press reported that Officer Anthony Carrasco said police believed people had been shot after multiple shots were reported at the center, about 9 miles north of downtown San Diego. NBC 7 San Diego, citing high-level law enforcement sources, reported that the two suspects were dead by self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The suspects were 17 and 18 years old.
The Islamic Center of San Diego is the largest mosque in San Diego County, and its campus includes a school offering Arabic, Islamic studies, and Quran classes, according to AP. Aerial footage showed children holding hands as they were escorted away from the area by authorities. The center's director said on Instagram that "all children and teachers have been evacuated and are safe."
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said said the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime, saying there was "hate rhetoric" involved.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom's office said he was being briefed on the situation. "We are grateful to the first responders on the scene working to protect the community and urge everyone to follow guidance from local authorities," his office posted on social media.
Authorities have not immediately released the identities of the victims or suspects, nor have they confirmed a motive.
The Islamic Center's website describes its mission as serving the Muslim community while also working with the broader public "to serve the less fortunate, to educate, and to better our nation." The investigation remained active Monday, with police expected to release additional details as the scene is processed and victims' families are notified.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said more police officers will be stationed at places of worship to ensure attendants' safety. "Making sure that we anticipate and try and prevent the very worse," he said.
"We didn't meet that mark today, but I have deep gratitude to the security officer who was here, whose actions and heroism undoubtedly saved lives," Gloria added.
