Three people have been killed after two teenage gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego, prompting a major police investigation into possible anti-Islamic motives.
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Authorities identified the suspected gunmen as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18. Both were later found dead inside a vehicle from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Police Chief Scott Wahl said one of the teenagers left behind a note, though he declined to disclose its contents. He added that investigators were also examining alleged anti-Islamic writings found inside the vehicle where the suspects were discovered.
The shooting occurred shortly before noon on Monday at the Islamic Center of San Diego, located in Clairemont. The mosque, the largest in San Diego County, also houses Al Rashid School, formerly known as the Islamic School of San Diego.
One of those killed was identified as Amin Abdullah, a security guard and father of eight. Witnesses and community members described him as a hero who appeared to have acted quickly to protect others during the attack.
A security guard who had worked at the mosque for several years said Abdullah’s death had devastated the community, describing the incident as shocking and unlike anything he had experienced at the mosque.
Police said the investigation began earlier after the mother of one of the suspects reported her son missing and raised concern that he was suicidal. She also informed officers that some of her weapons were missing and that her son was with another person dressed in camouflage.
Chief Wahl said that report triggered a broader threat assessment by the police, although investigators said there was no specific prior threat against the mosque or any other facility.
One of the suspects was said to have attended Madison High School, located about one mile from the mosque. Authorities said there was no indication of any threat to the school campus.
Witnesses described scenes of panic during the attack. One resident said he heard multiple gunshots and later saw a person bleeding from the head after apparently being struck. Police suggested the victim may have survived because the bullet ricocheted off a helmet.
Another witness said she saw a security guard outside the mosque wearing a tactical vest get hit by gunfire before getting back up and returning inside.
The attack led to the evacuation of children from the mosque and school premises.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned the attack and called on political leaders to end what it described as a growing campaign of anti-Muslim hate.
The American Jewish Committee also expressed solidarity with the Muslim community, saying all houses of worship must be safe and assuring Muslims that they are not alone.
The shooting has renewed concerns over threats against Muslim communities and places of worship in the United States, with investigators continuing to examine the suspects’ writings, weapons, background and possible motive.
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