A shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego left at least five people dead Monday morning, including two suspects aged 17 and 19 who were discovered in a nearby vehicle, according to San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl.
Officers responded to the Clairemont location around 11:40 am after receiving reports of an active shooter. The center, which also operates as an elementary school, was evacuated with children led out by police. Three bodies were initially found outside the building.
Wahl described the scene as "extremely chaotic" during a press briefing, noting that responding officers conducted room-by-room clearances of the mosque, breaching doors in some cases. At peak response, between 50 and 100 officers were inside the facility.
Law enforcement officials are treating the incident as a hate crime pending the outcome of their investigation. The Islamic Center of San Diego is the largest mosque in San Diego County and hosts religious services, community events, and Saturday classes for children.
City leaders responded swiftly. Mayor Todd Gloria and Governor Gavin Newsom both confirmed they had been briefed on the situation. "We are grateful to the first responders on the scene working to protect the community and urge everyone to follow guidance from local authorities," Newsom said.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations issued a statement on X, saying "No one should ever fear for their safety while attending prayers or studying at an elementary school." The organization pledged to learn more details about the incident.
The shooting occurred on the first day of Dhul Hijjah, one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar. Muslims observe the first ten days of the lunar month as a spiritual opportunity, with the month also marking the beginning of Hajj pilgrimage season and culminating in Eid al-Adha celebrations.
Police Chief Wahl indicated that substantial additional information would emerge as the investigation progresses, with another press briefing expected later in the day.
Author James Rodriguez: "The targeting of a place of worship during a sacred religious period demands swift, thorough investigation and zero tolerance for hate-fueled violence."
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