Vancouver police have announced increased patrols at local mosques following a deadly shooting at an Islamic centre in San Diego, California, that left three people dead. The incident occurred on Monday when two shooters attacked the Islamic Center of San Diego.
Attack Details
According to authorities, a security guard at the Islamic centre was killed while attempting to prevent the attackers from entering the mosque. Two other worshippers also lost their lives in the assault. Police emergency response teams discovered the victims outside the centre. The suspected shooters, aged 19 and 17, were later found dead in a vehicle from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Police Response in Vancouver
In an email Wednesday, Vancouver Police Department spokesperson Const. Darren Wong stated that extra officers are being deployed to mosques and Islamic centres across the city. “The goal here is to have a visible police presence so that our community feels safe to go about their regular business,” Wong said. He added that all patrol officers have been advised on which mosques or Islamic centres to monitor within their patrol district jurisdiction.
Wong emphasized that the department is continuing to monitor intelligence reports and remains actively engaged with the Muslim community. “We’re continuing to monitor intelligence reports and remain actively engaged with our Muslim community as well,” he noted.
Investigation
Police in California are investigating the San Diego attack as a hate crime. The motives of the shooters remain under investigation, but authorities have not ruled out ideological extremism. The incident has sparked concerns among Muslim communities across North America, prompting heightened security measures in several cities.
Vancouver police have urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The department is working closely with community leaders to ensure safety and provide support.
