San Diego, California, 19 May (H.S.): A deadly shooting at a mosque in San Diego on Monday left three people dead, including a mosque security guard, while two teenage suspects were also found dead, according to local authorities. Investigators are treating the incident as a possible hate crime, raising fresh concerns over religiously motivated violence in the United States.

The shooting occurred at the Islamic Center of San Diego, one of the largest Islamic centres in San Diego County. The mosque complex also houses the Al Rashid School, which offers courses in Arabic, Islamic studies, and Quranic education for children and young students.

Addressing a press conference near the scene, Scott Wahl confirmed that three men were killed during the attack. He said two teenage suspects linked to the shooting were also dead, although officials did not immediately release details regarding the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

Police have not yet disclosed a possible motive, but Chief Wahl stated that investigators are examining the case as a hate crime. Authorities are continuing forensic examinations and reviewing surveillance footage and witness testimonies.

Television aerial footage from the area showed heavily armed police personnel surrounding the mosque complex, while emergency responders evacuated children and worshippers from the premises. Several children were seen being escorted out of the mosque parking area holding hands under police supervision.

The mosque is situated in a diverse neighbourhood known for its Middle Eastern restaurants, markets, apartment complexes, and family communities.

Speaking alongside police officials, Imam Taha Hassane described the tragedy as devastating for the local Muslim community. He said the Islamic Center had long focused on interfaith outreach, education, and community-building initiatives.

According to Imam Hassane, a group of non-Muslim visitors had toured the mosque earlier in the day as part of an educational programme intended to promote understanding of Islam and strengthen community relations.

The Islamic Center’s official mission includes serving both the Muslim community and the wider public through charitable work, education, and social outreach. The centre regularly hosts interfaith activities and community programmes involving people from different religious backgrounds.

California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the situation soon after the incident. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Governor’s office expressed gratitude to emergency responders and urged residents to follow instructions issued by local authorities.

The shooting has once again intensified national debate over gun violence, hate crimes, and the security of religious institutions in the United States. Community leaders across San Diego have appealed for calm and unity while investigations continue.

Law enforcement agencies have increased security around places of worship in the region as a precautionary measure. Authorities said further details regarding the identities of the victims and suspects would be released after notifying family members.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar