Teenage Gunmen Attack San Diego Mosque, Killing Three in Hate Crime

Two teenagers attacked the Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in the county, on Monday. They killed three people before taking their own lives a short distance away. Police are treating the incident as a hate crime. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated that hate rhetoric was involved, though no specific threat had been made against the mosque beforehand.

Earlier that day, one shooter's mother had contacted police to report her son missing, along with weapons and her vehicle. She also found a note, the contents of which were not disclosed. The teenager was a student at a nearby high school. Authorities have not released the names of the attackers.

Among those killed was a mosque security guard, described as heroic for his actions during the attack. Police believe he played a pivotal role in preventing further casualties and undoubtedly saved lives. The center includes a school for children aged five and older, and all students were confirmed safe.

Police responded within four minutes of the initial call. The shooters were later found dead in a vehicle stopped on a nearby road. The mosque, located in a diverse neighborhood, focuses on interfaith relations and community service. Local leaders and national organizations, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations, condemned the violence.