San Diego Mosque Shooting Investigated as Anti-Muslim Hate Crime

Authorities investigating the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego say “anti-Islamic writings” were discovered inside a vehicle connected to the two teenage suspects.

The attack, which killed three people Monday, is now being investigated as a possible anti-Muslim hate crime, according to law enforcement officials familiar with the case.

Suspects identified after deadly mosque shooting

Officials identified the suspected gunmen as:

• Caleb Vasquez, 18
• Cain Clark, 17

Police said both teenagers were later found dead inside a vehicle from what investigators believe were self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Authorities have not yet released a formal motive, but investigators say evidence found in the car points toward anti-Islamic extremism.

Police responding to earlier warning before attack

According to investigators, police had already been searching for the suspects before the shooting occurred.

One suspect’s mother reportedly contacted authorities after telling officers her son was suicidal and had taken:

• Her vehicle
• Three firearms

Police initially searched nearby locations, including a shopping mall and a school, before emergency calls came in reporting gunfire at the mosque.

Security guard praised as hero

Community members and officials credited mosque security guard Amin Abdullah with preventing even greater loss of life during the attack.

A fundraising campaign organized by Council on American-Islamic Relations San Diego and the Islamic Center has already raised more than $1.7 million for Abdullah’s family.

Ahmet Kuru described Abdullah as a beloved member of the local Muslim community.

“Amin was always there greeting people,” Kuru said.

San Diego mayor promises stronger security measures

Todd Gloria said city officials are increasing security measures amid concerns about potential copycat attacks.

“There’s always a concern about other sick and twisted individuals who will take inspiration from this tragedy,” Gloria said during an interview Tuesday.

He added that the city would spare “no expense” protecting residents and religious institutions.

Anti-Muslim incidents continue rising in the United States

The shooting comes amid growing concerns over rising Islamophobia across the United States.

According to CAIR, anti-Muslim and anti-Arab complaints reached record highs in 2025, with the organization documenting 8,683 incidents nationwide.

Reported complaints included:

• Hate crimes
• Employment discrimination
• Harassment
• Immigration-related targeting

The attack has renewed debates over online extremism and inflammatory rhetoric targeting Muslim communities.

Far-right commentary sparks backlash online

Far-right activist Laura Loomer faced criticism after posting unsubstantiated claims online suggesting the shooting may have been staged to generate sympathy for Muslims.

Community leaders condemned the comments as dangerous and inflammatory.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump called the shooting a “terrible situation” and said the administration would investigate the incident closely.

The FBI and local authorities continue to examine evidence as the investigation develops.