Two teenagers who opened fire at a San Diego mosque scrawled hate rhetoric on their weapons before carrying out the attack, police have confirmed. The shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont Mesa on Monday left three adults dead, including a security guard hailed as a hero for his actions that likely saved lives.
Suspects and Hate Rhetoric
The suspects, identified as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18, were found dead from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Officials told CNN that hate speech was inscribed on one of the weapons used in the attack. A note discovered by the mother of one suspect contained what police described as "generalised hate rhetoric and hate speech," which is under investigation. Police Chief Scott Wahl clarified that the note did not contain specific threats to the Islamic center or any particular location.
Victims and Heroic Security Guard
Among the deceased was a mosque security guard who, according to Chief Wahl, played a pivotal role in preventing the attack from being much worse. "It's fair to say his actions were heroic. Undoubtedly he saved lives today," Wahl said. A landscaper nearby was shot at but not injured. Three adults died at the scene, and no children were harmed, as all kids at the center were reported safe.
Police and Community Response
San Diego police responded with 50 to 100 officers, and the scene was declared contained within minutes. The suspects were found dead in a vehicle blocks away. The Islamic Center, which also houses a school, was evacuated, and nearby schools were placed in lockdown. The San Diego Unified School District made counsellors available for students and families affected by the attack. Superintendent Fabi Bagula urged families to check in with their children and provide support, stating, "We stand firmly against Islamophobia and hate in all its forms."
Reactions from Leaders
Imam Taha Hassane, director of the Islamic Center, called the attack "extremely outrageous" and pleaded for tolerance and love. "My community is mourning. The religious intolerance and hate that unfortunately exists in our nation is unprecedented," he said. US President Donald Trump described the incident as a "terrible situation," while California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed gratitude to first responders. The New York Police Department increased deployments to mosques across the city out of caution.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are examining the hate rhetoric found on weapons and in the note. The Islamic Center remains closed until further notice. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) condemned the attack, urging the public to keep the community in their prayers. Authorities are working to determine the motive behind the shooting, which has shaken the local community.
