Three people were killed following a shooting at an Islamic center in San Diego, California, in an incident U.S. authorities are investigating as a possible hate crime.
International media, citing police officials, reported that the two suspected attackers, aged 17 and 19, were later found with apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Authorities have not yet publicly identified the victims, while investigations into the motive behind the attack remain ongoing.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated that unless evidence suggests another motive, the shooting will be treated as a possible act of religiously motivated hatred.
The mayor of San Diego expressed solidarity with the Muslim community and said “hate has no place in this city,” adding that security measures around religious institutions would be increased.
The attack comes amid continuing concerns over rising incidents of religious and racial hate crimes in the United States, where religious centers have repeatedly faced threats and violence.
Analysts say the incident once again highlights broader debates surrounding extremism, gun violence, and the safety of religious minorities in America.
Experts also warn that increasing political polarization, online hate speech, and radicalization through social media may be contributing to a growing risk of similar attacks.
Observers note that the young age of the suspects has intensified concerns over how extremist narratives and hate-driven content can influence vulnerable individuals online.
