Frederick Martin Davidson was a 36-year-old mechanical engineering graduate student at San Diego State University (SDSU). Described as a loner, Davidson was deeply involved in his research but reportedly struggled with feelings of persecution and paranoia. He believed that his professors were conspiring against him, hindering his academic progress and future employment prospects. Davidson had previously failed his master's thesis defense and was scheduled for a second attempt on August 15, 1996.

On August 15, 1996, Davidson attended his rescheduled thesis defense in a classroom at SDSU's engineering building. Present were three professors: Chen Liang (32), his graduate advisor; Constantinos Lyrintzis (36); and D. Preston Lowrey III (44). Three other students were also in attendance to observe the defense.

Shortly before the meeting, Davidson had entered the room and concealed a 9mm handgun and five extra magazines in a first aid kit. As the defense began, Davidson handed Liang a document and, without warning, retrieved the handgun and opened fire. He first shot Liang, then Lowrey, who attempted to escape but was shot multiple times at the doorway. Lyrintzis fled to an adjacent room, but Davidson pursued and fatally shot him under a desk. Davidson fired a total of 23 rounds, with 16 bullets striking the professors. The three students were unharmed and managed to escape.

After the shootings, Davidson called 911, expressing remorse and a desire to die. He surrendered to campus police without resistance. Investigations revealed that Davidson had planned the attack in advance, driven by his belief that the faculty members were sabotaging his career.

On July 19, 1997, Davidson pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree murder and was sentenced to three consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole.