Mosque Shooting

Three people were killed Monday morning in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego—the city’s largest mosque—which authorities are investigating as a hate crime.

Two hours before the shooting, police received a call from the mother of one of the suspects, who reported her teenage son had taken firearms and her vehicle, and she suspected he was suicidal and with a peer. The two attackers, ages 17 and 18, were found dead in a car from apparent self-inflicted wounds. 

According to officials, hate speech was scrawled on one of the weapons, anti-Islamic writing was found in the car, and a note referencing racial pride was recovered. Among those killed was a mosque security guard and father of eight who police say played a “heroic” role in preventing further bloodshed.

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PRAY WITH US
God of mercy, come near. Come near to the victims’ family as their world rips apart. Come near to the community that is shaken and gripped by fear. Come near to us as this act of violence unravels any sense of security, shatters any semblance of peace. 
Amen.