Authorities continue investigating a deadly mass shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego that left three people dead, including a security guard praised for helping save lives during the attack.
According to investigators, the suspects — identified as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez — allegedly opened fire outside and inside the mosque before fleeing the scene in a white BMW. Police later located the vehicle nearby, where both suspects were found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Among those killed was mosque security guard Amin Abdullah, whom officials described as heroic during the chaos. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said Abdullah confronted the attackers after gunfire erupted and managed to warn people inside the mosque, actions authorities believe prevented the gunmen from reaching an attached school area where children were present.
Investigators say disturbing evidence recovered from the scene and the suspects’ vehicle suggests the shooting may have been motivated by extremist ideologies and hate-filled beliefs targeting multiple racial and religious groups. Authorities confirmed that anti-Islamic writings, hate speech, and extremist symbolism were discovered during the investigation.
Police also stated that one firearm allegedly contained hateful writing, while a gas can recovered near the suspects’ vehicle reportedly displayed Nazi SS imagery. In addition, investigators are examining a lengthy document believed to be connected to the suspects that allegedly contains racist, antisemitic, and anti-religious rhetoric.
Officials say at least one suicide note referencing “racial pride” and broader hate-based beliefs was also recovered. Chief Wahl noted that the rhetoric appeared directed at multiple religious and racial communities rather than a single group.
Authorities have not officially confirmed social media claims regarding the suspects’ personal identities or relationship status. Police emphasized that several circulating online claims remain unverified as investigators continue reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
The FBI and additional federal agencies are assisting in the investigation, which is being treated as a possible hate crime. Detectives are also examining reports that parts of the attack may have been livestreamed online.
The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation from community leaders and renewed discussions surrounding online radicalization, extremist violence, and attacks targeting religious communities.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
