Deadly attack at San Diego mosque: Everything that happened in the brutal killing of three

On May 18, 2026, a shocking and violent episode unfolded at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont, California, when two teenage gunmen opened fire outside the mosque, killing three men before turning the weapons on themselves.

According to police, the incident began earlier that morning when the mother of one suspect called authorities around 9:40 a.m. to report her son missing, armed and in possession of her vehicle and firearms. She also expressed concern that he was suicidal. Responding officers initiated a search using tools like automated license plate readers and alerts to nearby schools.

Despite these efforts, at approximately 11:40 a.m. PDT, the two teens, aged 17 and 18, approached the Islamic Center and opened fire, killing three adult men outside the building. Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed that the suspects were later found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds in a vehicle nearby a short time after the mosque shooting.


One of the victims was the mosque’s security guard, whose intervention has been credited by authorities with preventing further casualties.

Investigation and potential motive: Hate crime inquiry

Law enforcement officials have stated that the shooting is being investigated as a possible hate crime. While there was no direct known threat specifically aimed at the mosque prior to the attack, investigators have uncovered evidence suggesting that the teens had engaged in “generalized hate rhetoric” and had left behind writings consistent with broader bias against religious or ethnic groups.

Police are continuing to review digital communications and other materials to better understand potential motives.

The FBI is also participating in the investigation, which remains ongoing.

The Islamic Center of San Diego

The Islamic Center of San Diego is the largest mosque in San Diego County, serving as both a place of worship and a community hub that includes educational programs for children. On the day of the attack, children attending the mosque’s affiliated school were safely evacuated by police with no reported injuries.

Imam Taha Hassane, director of the mosque, emphasized that the center is committed to interfaith outreach and peace, noting that a group of non-Muslims had visited the mosque earlier that same day to learn about Islam.