Hate Crime at San Diego Mosque Leaves Three Dead

Two teenage gunmen opened fire Monday outside the Islamic Center of San Diego, killing three men before being found dead in a nearby vehicle from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

The attack occurred just before noon in the Clairemont neighborhood. Among the victims was a security guard, whom authorities credited with likely preventing further casualties. All children attending the Bright Horizon Academy — a day school housed within the mosque complex — were accounted for and safe.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed the FBI had been called in to assist, and authorities are treating the shooting as a hate crime. The suspects were 17 and 19 years old.

The Islamic Center is the largest mosque in San Diego County. The attack came days before Eid al-Adha. Imam Taha Hassane addressed reporters at the scene: “We have never experienced a tragedy like this before. It is extremely outrageous to target a place of worship.”

President Trump called it a “terrible situation.” Governor Gavin Newsom said he was briefed and praised first responders.

The shooting reflects growing tension in Muslim and Jewish communities since US and Israeli strikes on Iran began in late February.