Police respond to reported active shooter situation at Islamic Center of San Diego
Authorities say the scene remains active as officers evacuate worshippers and nearby schools
SAN DIEGO — A massive law enforcement response unfolded Monday afternoon after reports of an active shooter at the Islamic Center of San Diego in the Clairemont area, according to San Diego police and multiple local media reports.
The incident was reported at the Islamic Center located in the 7000 block of Eckstrom Avenue. Authorities said the situation was “active but contained” as heavily armed officers, SWAT teams and emergency personnel surrounded the area.
Police established a reunification center nearby while evacuating worshippers, students and staff from the property, which also houses a school serving children. Helicopter footage from local stations showed dozens of police vehicles and officers moving through the surrounding neighborhood as authorities searched the area.
San Diego police said they believed people may have been shot, though officials had not publicly confirmed casualty numbers as of Monday afternoon.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said his office had been briefed on the situation, while San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria urged residents to avoid the area and follow law enforcement instructions.
The Islamic Center of San Diego is one of the largest Muslim institutions in Southern California and serves as a major religious, educational and community center for Muslims in the region.
The incident immediately raised broader concerns about security at houses of worship and comes amid years of heightened fears surrounding attacks targeting religious communities across the United States. Following major attacks on mosques, synagogues and churches in recent years, law enforcement agencies nationwide have increased security coordination around faith institutions.
As of Monday afternoon, authorities had not publicly released information regarding:
a possible suspect
motive
number of victims
whether the shooting specifically targeted the mosque
The investigation remains ongoing.
TY for covering this story so quickly, and I look forward to hearing updates.