Three people were killed after a shooting at an Islamic centre in San Diego, California, on 18 May, in what community leaders and civil rights groups are describing as a possible Islamophobic hate crime. According to police and local reports, two suspects later died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds following the attack.
Authorities said the victims were attending activities at the mosque when the shooting began. Among those killed was a security guard who reportedly managed to lock doors and help protect children and worshippers inside the building before being killed during the attack. Community members later praised him for preventing an even greater tragedy.
Police said officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the Islamic centre before discovering the suspects dead from apparent self-inflicted wounds. Investigators are continuing to examine the motive behind the attack.
Multiple media reports identified the suspects as teenagers, aged 17 and 18, although authorities had not fully confirmed all identities publicly at the time of reporting. Investigators were also examining writings and messages allegedly linked to anti-Muslim views, further raising suspicions that the attack was motivated by Islamophobia.
Several Muslim organisations and civil rights groups described the shooting as a likely Islamophobic hate crime, pointing to the targeting of a mosque and worshippers during prayers. Community leaders said the attack reflects growing anti-Muslim hostility in the United States and called for stronger action against hate speech and violence directed at Muslims.
