Five Dead After Shooting at San Diego Islamic Center; FBI Investigating Possible Hate Crime

At least five people are dead following a shooting Monday at the Islamic Center of San Diego near the 805 Freeway in San Diego.

Authorities say the violence began around midday, prompting a massive law enforcement response to the area, which is also located near a school. Police say three victims were found dead at the Islamic center, including a security guard who officials say may have helped prevent even more bloodshed.

While officers were responding to the initial scene, reports of another shooting surfaced a few blocks away. Investigators later found two teenage males dead inside a vehicle from what appeared to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Authorities believe the teens were the suspects involved in the attack.

Police say the mother of one of the suspects, a 17-year-old, had contacted authorities earlier in the day reporting her son missing and warning that several firearms were missing from her home.

Investigators also say at least one suspect left behind a note, and anti-Islamic or hate-related writings were reportedly discovered on a recovered weapon and inside the suspects’ vehicle.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is assisting local authorities as the investigation continues. San Diego police say the shooting is being investigated as a possible hate crime