San Diego mosque shooting kills 3; 2 teen suspects dead, police say

A shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, the city's largest mosque, resulted in three fatalities Monday, including two teenage suspects who died in the incident, according to authorities.

The Islamic Center of San Diego, located in the City Heights neighborhood, serves approximately 7,000 weekly worshippers and has been a community cornerstone since its founding in 1989. The center operates with an annual budget of approximately $2.5 million, funding educational programs, religious services, and community outreach initiatives.

San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit confirmed that officers responded to reports of an active shooter at approximately 1:45 p.m. Monday. Upon arrival, they found three deceased individuals: two teenage suspects and one adult victim. The adult victim has been identified as a 60-year-old community member who was attending afternoon prayers.

"This appears to be an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the community," Chief Nisleit stated during a press conference held near the crime scene. "Our investigators are working to determine a motive and establish the full sequence of events."

The mosque has implemented security measures in recent years, including surveillance cameras and controlled access points following a 2019 incident where anti-Islamic graffiti was discovered on the property. The center's security budget has increased by approximately 40% since 2020, reflecting broader trends among religious institutions nationwide.

Community leaders have expressed shock and grief. "The Islamic Center has always been a place of peace and unity," said Dr. Omar Mahmood, the center's board president. "We are devastated by this senseless violence and are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of our congregation."

Local businesses near the mosque have temporarily closed or adjusted hours as a precaution. The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce has activated its business continuity support network to assist affected merchants.

The incident comes amid rising concerns about hate crimes targeting religious institutions. FBI statistics show hate crimes against Muslims increased by 9% nationally in 2025, though San Diego had reported a decrease in such incidents over the past two years.

Counseling services have been made available to community members through the San Diego County Behavioral Health Services. The center plans to hold a vigil Tuesday evening at 6 p.m., with expected attendance from interfaith leaders and city officials.

The San Diego Police Department has increased patrols at religious sites throughout the city as a precautionary measure. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the department's tip line at 619-531-2233.