- Three people were killed in a shooting outside the Islamic Center of San Diego, including a courageous security guard.
- The suspects, identified as Cain Clark and Caleb Velasquez, were later found dead from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
- Authorities are investigating the attack as a possible hate crime due to anti-Islamic writings found in the suspects' vehicle.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA — Months after San Diego police released body-worn camera footage of a shooting involving a replica firearm, the city is facing another major shooting investigation. This time, three people were killed outside the Islamic Center of San Diego before the two suspected gunmen were found dead nearby.
The suspects were identified in reports as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Velasquez. Clark was a former Madison High School student and standout wrestler, according to the school’s social media page. His grandfather told reporters the family was shocked by what happened.
Three People Killed Outside Mosque
The shooting happened Monday near the Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in San Diego County. Authorities said three adult victims were killed, including a security guard who is being praised for helping prevent an even worse attack.
The mosque also has a school on its grounds. Officials said students and staff were safely evacuated, and no children were harmed.
Police later found the two suspects dead inside a BMW a few blocks from the mosque. Authorities said both appeared to have died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Hate Crime Investigation
Investigators are treating the attack as a possible hate crime. A law enforcement source told Reuters that anti-Islamic writings were found inside the suspects’ vehicle. Reports also said hate speech was written on the firearms used in the shooting.
A shotgun and a gas can were also found near the scene where the suspects’ bodies were discovered. The gas can reportedly had an “SS” sticker on it, which appears to reference the Nazi Schutzstaffel.
Police have not released all details about the writings or what may have motivated the attack. Federal investigators are also helping with the case.
Mother Warned Police Before Shooting
Police said they had received a call earlier Monday from a concerned mother who reported her teenage son missing. She told authorities she believed he was suicidal and that several weapons and her vehicle were missing from her home.
The mother also said her son was with another person and that the two were dressed in camouflage.
After speaking with her, police began treating the situation as a greater threat to the public. The shooting happened before officers were able to stop the suspects.
Community Mourns Victims
The attack has left San Diego’s Muslim community in mourning. One of the victims was identified by a family friend as Amin Abdullah, a security guard at the mosque. He is being remembered for his courage and for helping protect others during the shooting.
San Diego officials have increased security around places of worship after the attack. Community leaders have also called for unity and said the mosque should have been a safe place for prayer, learning, and family gatherings.
The investigation remains ongoing as police and federal authorities work to determine the full motive and timeline of the shooting.
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