Five Dead in Shooting at San Diego Islamic Center; Hate Crime Investigation Underway

A shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego on May 18 resulted in the deaths of three men, including security guard Amin Abdullah, and two teenage suspects. The incident occurred around 11:40 a.m. in the Clairemont area. The suspects, aged 17 and 18, were later found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds in a nearby vehicle.

Prior to the attack, one suspect's mother reported her son missing, expressing concerns about his mental state and noting that her vehicle and firearms were missing. She informed authorities that her son and a companion, both dressed in camouflage, had left together.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated that the shooting is being investigated as a potential hate crime, citing the location and the presence of hate rhetoric. He emphasized the need to determine the exact motives behind the attack.

The Islamic Center, the largest mosque in San Diego County, also houses the Al Rashid School, which offers weekend classes in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and the Quran for young Muslims. Following the incident, the center has temporarily closed.

Community leaders and organizations, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), condemned the violence. CAIR-San Diego Executive Director Tazheen Nizam stated, "We strongly condemn this horrifying act of violence at the Islamic Center of San Diego."

President Donald Trump labeled the incident a "terrible situation," and Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his condolences, stating he was being briefed on the situation.

The FBI is collaborating with local authorities in the ongoing investigation. Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily emphasized the bureau's commitment to uncovering all facts associated with the incident.