Three people were killed after two teenage gunmen opened fire outside a mosque in San Diego before turning the weapons on themselves, police said.
Authorities said the attack happened on Monday morning at the Islamic Center of San Diego, where worshippers and children were gathered on campus.
The suspects, aged 17 and 18, were found dead inside a vehicle several blocks away after fleeing the scene.
Police said one of the victims was a mosque security guard who helped prevent further casualties during the shooting.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl described the guard’s actions as “heroic,” saying he likely saved lives.
Investigators said the shooting was being treated as a suspected hate crime because the attackers targeted a mosque and one suspect reportedly left behind writings containing hate speech.
Police revealed the mother of one suspect had contacted officers hours earlier after her son left home with firearms and a vehicle alongside another teenager dressed in camouflage.
Officers were already searching for the pair when gunfire erupted outside the mosque.
Authorities said the suspects also fired at a landscaper from their vehicle shortly after the mosque attack, although the worker escaped unharmed.
Children attending classes at the mosque’s school were escorted to safety as nearby schools were placed on lockdown.
Imam Taha Hassane condemned the attack, saying a place of worship “is not a battlefield.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom said the state would not tolerate violence targeting religious communities.
Erizia Rubyjeana
