Three Killed In Shooting At Islamic Center Of San Diego, Investigation Treats Attack As Possible Hate Crime

by HEDNEWS on May 19, 2026

Three killed in shooting at Islamic Center of San Diego, investigation treats attack as possible hate crime Three people have been killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego in California, authorities said, in an incident that is being investigated as a possible hate crime. Police confirmed that two teenage suspects were also found dead near the scene in a vehicle, believed to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds shortly after the attack. The shooting occurred shortly before midday prayers at the Islamic Center, the largest mosque in San Diego County, prompting a rapid response from law enforcement and an FBI-led investigation. Authorities said the attack left three adult victims dead, including a security guard who was credited with helping to prevent further casualties during the incident. Police later discovered the two suspects—reported to be teenagers aged 17 and 18—dead in a nearby vehicle, with investigators describing the deaths as apparent suicides following the shooting. Officials said they are treating the incident as a potential hate crime based on early evidence, including reported hate-filled rhetoric linked to the suspects, though a full motive has not yet been officially confirmed.The mosque complex, which also includes a school, was evacuated during the emergency. Authorities confirmed that all children and staff were safe and no students were harmed in the attack. San Diego police said officers responded within minutes of the first emergency calls and secured the area, while urging the public to avoid the scene as the investigation continues. Community leaders and officials have condemned the violence and expressed condolences to victims’ families, while counseling and support services have been made available to those affected.