Two suspects in a Monday shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego are dead, according to a police source who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss further details. Authorities earlier said they believe multiple people were shot, but have not released more details.
Shooting at Islamic Center
Police responded to reports of multiple shots fired at the Islamic Center of San Diego, located about 9 miles (14 km) north of downtown San Diego. It was unclear whether the shooter was outside or inside the building, or if they had been captured. The San Diego Police Department posted that the scene was “still active but contained.”
Largest Mosque in San Diego County
The Islamic Center is the largest mosque in San Diego County, according to its website. The campus includes the Al Rashid School, which offers courses in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and the Quran. Aerial TV footage showed more than a dozen children holding hands and being walked out of the parking lot, which was surrounded by scores of police vehicles. The white mosque is located in a neighborhood of homes, apartments, and strip malls with Middle Eastern restaurants and markets.
Official Response
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said he was being 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,” his office posted on the social platform X.
Mission of the Islamic Center
The Islamic Center’s website states its mission is not only to serve the Muslim population but also to “work with the larger community to serve the less fortunate, to educate, and to better our nation.” Five daily prayers are held there, and the mosque collaborates with other organizations and people of all faiths on social causes.
