San Diego Mosque Shooting Three Killed In Suspected Hate Crime Attack

Three men were killed after two teenage gunmen opened fire outside the Islamic Center of San Diego in California, in what police are investigating as a suspected hate crime attack. Authorities said the shooting happened at the largest mosque in San Diego County during daytime activities at the Islamic center, shocking the local Muslim community and triggering a massive police response across the area.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed that the two suspects, believed to be teenagers aged 17 and 18, were later found dead inside a vehicle a few blocks away from the mosque. Officials said both appeared to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds after the attack.

Police said the gunmen opened fire near the entrance of the Islamic Center of San Diego, killing three adult men. One of the victims was identified by community members as a mosque security guard who reportedly acted heroically during the attack and may have prevented even more casualties. Authorities praised his actions and said he likely saved lives by responding quickly during the shooting.

The shooting happened while worshippers, staff members, and children were present at the mosque complex, which also includes educational facilities and community services. Police and emergency responders quickly evacuated children and civilians from the area while officers secured the scene. Officials confirmed that no children were physically harmed during the attack.

Investigators said early evidence suggests the attack may have been motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. Police revealed that they discovered anti-Islamic writings and symbols connected to white supremacist ideology linked to the suspects. Authorities also said one suspect reportedly left behind a note containing hate-related messages before the shooting.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said investigators are treating the incident as a hate crime unless evidence later proves otherwise. The FBI has joined the investigation alongside local law enforcement agencies to determine the full motive behind the attack and whether the suspects had connections to extremist groups or online radicalization networks.

Officials also revealed that the mother of one suspect contacted police earlier in the day after her son reportedly left home with firearms and appeared suicidal. Authorities are now examining whether earlier intervention could have prevented the tragedy.

The attack has deeply shaken Muslim communities across the United States, especially because it happened shortly before Eid al-Adha, one of Islam’s most important religious holidays. Community leaders condemned the violence and called for stronger protections at places of worship. Many mosques across the country reportedly increased security measures after news of the shooting spread.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and other political leaders condemned the attack and expressed support for the victims and the Muslim community. Civil rights organizations, including Muslim advocacy groups, described the incident as another example of rising hate-driven violence targeting religious minorities in the United States.

Witnesses described scenes of panic and fear as gunfire erupted outside the mosque. Emergency crews, police officers, and tactical units flooded the neighborhood while residents nearby were told to remain indoors during the active shooter response.

Authorities continue investigating the backgrounds of both teenage suspects, including possible online activity, extremist influences, and access to weapons. Officials said more details about the attackers and victims are expected to be released after families are notified and investigations progress further.