Three Killed in Suspected Hate-Motivated Mosque Shooting in San Diego

 

Three men were shot dead after two teenage attackers opened fire outside a mosque in San Diego in what police are investigating as a possible hate crime before the suspects later took their own lives, authorities said.

According to police reports, the shooting occurred early Monday morning near a local mosque where worshippers had gathered for prayers. Investigators said the two teenage suspects arrived at the location armed and began shooting at individuals outside the religious center, killing three men at the scene and causing panic among residents in the area.

Authorities revealed that about two hours before the attack, the mother of one of the suspects contacted police expressing fears about her son’s mental state. According to investigators, she reported that her teenage son was possibly suicidal and had left home with another friend. Police said officers attempted to locate the pair following the warning call but were unable to find them before the violence unfolded.

Law enforcement officials stated that after carrying out the attack, the two suspects later died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Police recovered weapons from the scene and are continuing forensic examinations as part of the ongoing investigation.

Speaking during a press briefing, officials said detectives are examining evidence suggesting the attack may have been motivated by religious hatred. According to investigators, preliminary findings indicate the mosque may have been deliberately targeted, though authorities stressed that the investigation remains active and no final conclusion has yet been reached.

Community members in San Diego expressed shock and grief following the deadly incident. Religious leaders and local residents gathered near the mosque to mourn the victims and call for unity in the aftermath of the tragedy. Several community organizations also condemned the violence and urged authorities to strengthen protections for places of worship.

Police have not yet publicly released the identities of the victims or the teenage suspects pending notification of families. Authorities are also reviewing the suspects’ online activities and communications to determine whether extremist views or anti-religious sentiments played a role in the attack.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement agencies are assisting in the inquiry. Officials urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could help investigators piece together the events leading up to the shooting.

The incident has renewed concerns over rising hate-related violence targeting religious communities across the United States, with security experts warning that places of worship continue to face increasing threats from individuals motivated by extremism and intolerance.