SAN DIEGO: Two teenage gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday, killing three men before later dying by suicide a few blocks away.
In this regard, San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, speaking at a news conference near the scene, said investigators are examining the circumstances leading up to the attack. He added that further details are expected to emerge in the coming days as evidence is reviewed and witnesses are interviewed.
Police believe the guard may have played a critical role in preventing the attack from becoming more severe by confronting or slowing the gunmen’s actions, officials said.
The Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in the county, also houses the Al Rashid School, which provides education in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and Quranic learning for children as young as five, according to its official information.
Chief Wahl confirmed that all children present at the center at the time of the incident were safely evacuated. He expressed sympathy for the victims’ families, noting the emotional impact on the community.
In this regard, emergency responders arrived within minutes of the first emergency call. Shortly after the initial shooting, additional gunfire was reported a few blocks away, where a separate individual was targeted but not injured.
The footage from the scene showed children being led out of the mosque premises in an organized evacuation as police secured the area. The neighborhood, which includes homes, apartments, and small businesses, remained under heavy police presence for several hours.
Imam Taha Hassane, director of the Islamic Center, condemned the attack, calling it “extremely outrageous” and focusing on that places of worship should remain safe for all communities. He also highlighted the center’s interfaith and community outreach efforts.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) condemned the shooting and urged continued prayers for the affected families.
