Five Dead in Shooting at San Diego Islamic Center
Two teenage gunmen killed three men at the Islamic Center of San Diego before taking their own lives; authorities are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime.
On May 18, 2026, a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego resulted in five fatalities, including two teenage suspects who took their own lives. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated that the incident is being investigated as a potential hate crime.
The attack occurred around 11:40 a.m. at the Islamic Center, the largest mosque in San Diego County. Responding officers found three deceased adult males outside the mosque, one of whom was a security guard. Shortly thereafter, reports of additional gunfire led officers to a nearby location where the two suspects, aged 17 and 19, were found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Imam Taha Hassane, the mosque's director, condemned the violence, emphasizing the center's commitment to interfaith relations and community outreach. California Governor Gavin Newsom's office acknowledged the tragedy, expressing gratitude to first responders and urging the public to follow guidance from local authorities.
The Islamic Center of San Diego, located in the Clairemont neighborhood, includes the Al Rashid School, which offers courses in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and the Quran. The incident occurred at the start of Dhul Hijjah, one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the motives behind the attack and have urged the community to remain vigilant.