Shooting at Islamic Center in San Diego Leaves Three Dead

A shooting incident at an Islamic center in San Diego on Monday resulted in the deaths of three adults, while two teenage suspects also died. The police chief, Scott Wall, revealed that the suspects were aged 17 and 19.

Wall informed the press that he suspects the teenagers died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. He confirmed that no officers discharged their weapons during the event, although the investigation is still ongoing.

Authorities reported that the adult victims were killed at the Islamic center. Wall identified one of the victims as a security guard who “played a vital role” in preventing the situation from worsening.

Earlier, police had cordoned off the area around the mosque located on Ekstrom Avenue, urging the public to avoid the vicinity while the situation was being managed.

According to local reports, a significant police presence, including SWAT teams, was established outside the Islamic Center, along with members of the San Diego Fire Rescue. Children from nearby schools were seen evacuating amid the police activity.

Mayor Todd Gloria acknowledged the incident during a communication on social media, stating that he was receiving updates from law enforcement and that emergency personnel were working to ensure community safety. He urged people to heed the instructions of public safety authorities.

California Governor Gavin Newsom was similarly updated on the “evolving situation” at the center. His press team expressed gratitude toward first responders and emphasized the importance of following local guidance.

The San Diego Islamic Center is noted as the largest mosque in the county. Notably, it shares its address with Bright Horizon Academy, a private Islamic school serving students from pre-kindergarten through high school. The school reportedly enrolled over 350 students across its campuses, although it’s unclear which grades are specifically housed at the lower campus adjacent to the mosque.