Authorities in San Diego have identified one of the victims killed in Monday’s deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego as Amin Abdullah, a security guard at the mosque, as investigators continue examining the attack as a possible hate crime. The tragic shooting has left the local Muslim community and residents across the city grieving after three men were killed in the violent attack.
According to the San Diego Police Department, the shooting unfolded around noon on May 18 at the Islamic Center located on Eckstrom Avenue near Balboa Avenue and Interstate 805. Police Chief Scott Wahl said officers received reports of an active shooter at approximately 11:45 a.m. Emergency responders from multiple agencies rushed to the scene as chaos unfolded at the mosque and surrounding area.
Investigators said two armed suspects opened fire inside the mosque, killing three adult male victims before fleeing the scene. Authorities stated the suspects also fired shots in a nearby neighborhood along the 7300 block of Salerno Street while attempting to escape. A landscaper was reportedly targeted during the incident but was not hit by gunfire. Police later located both suspects dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds near the 2100 block of Hatton Street.
Officials believe the suspects were 17 and 19 years old, though their identities have not yet been publicly released. Authorities confirmed the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily said federal investigators are “meticulously assessing the situation” and pledged that authorities “will work tirelessly until we learn the truth.”
Police confirmed that no children were harmed during the attack. The Islamic Center of San Diego later announced on social media that all students and teachers on campus were safely evacuated following the shooting. Authorities also established a reunification center for families at Hathaway Street as worried parents gathered to reconnect with their children after the terrifying ordeal.
“This is every community’s worst nightmare,” Chief Wahl said during a press conference. Todd Gloria also addressed the tragedy, expressing support for the city’s Muslim community and promising resources to help protect religious institutions. Meanwhile, roads surrounding the mosque remained closed for hours as investigators processed the scene. Authorities say the identities of the remaining victims have not yet been released as the investigation into the deadly shooting continues.
