SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Multiple people are dead following a shooting Monday afternoon at the Islamic Center of San Diego in California, prompting a massive law enforcement response and an ongoing investigation involving local and federal authorities.
Police were dispatched shortly before noon to the Islamic Center located in the Clairemont area after reports of an active shooter. Officers arriving on scene located multiple victims outside the mosque complex as terrified worshippers and students attempted to flee the area.
Authorities now say at least three victims were killed during the incident. Several others suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious and were transported to area hospitals.
Investigators say two suspected shooters were later found dead after fleeing the scene. Officials believe the deaths were self-inflicted following a police response several blocks away from the Islamic center.
The facility includes both a mosque and school, leading to a large-scale evacuation involving children, staff, and worshippers. Video from the scene showed heavily armed officers escorting groups of children and adults away from the area while tactical teams secured the property.
Officials confirmed all students inside the school were safely evacuated and reunited with family members.
Authorities are now investigating the shooting as a possible hate-motivated attack. Detectives and federal investigators are reviewing evidence recovered from the suspects, along with social media activity and other materials that may help determine a motive.
Police also confirmed they had received information earlier in the day involving concerns over missing firearms connected to one of the suspects before the shooting unfolded.
The Islamic Center of San Diego is one of the largest Muslim community centers in the region and serves hundreds of families throughout the area.
Law enforcement remained on scene Monday evening as investigators processed evidence and continued interviews with witnesses.
The identities of several victims have not yet been officially released pending family notifications.
This remains a developing story.
