USA (Kaab TV) – A deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in San Diego County, United States left three worshippers dead and sparked a major law enforcement response as authorities investigate the incident as a possible hate crime.

Two teenage gunmen opened fire outside the mosque on Monday shortly before midday prayers, killing three men, including a mosque security guard who officials say acted heroically during the attack.

The two suspects were later found dead inside a nearby vehicle from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said officers arrived at the scene within minutes after receiving reports of an active shooter at the Islamic Center in the Clairemont neighborhood. Authorities evacuated dozens of worshippers and children from the mosque complex, which also houses Al Rashid School.

Investigators said evidence recovered from the suspects’ vehicle and weapons included anti-Muslim rhetoric, prompting authorities and the FBI to treat the shooting as a suspected hate crime.

Among those killed was security guard Amin Abdullah, who reportedly warned teachers inside the mosque to lock classroom doors moments before he was fatally shot. Mosque leaders said his actions likely saved many lives, including those of children attending classes inside the building.

“It is extremely outrageous to target a place of worship,” said Imam Taha Hassane, director of the Islamic Center of San Diego, while addressing reporters after the attack.

Police also revealed that one suspect’s mother had contacted authorities earlier in the day to report her son missing, along with several firearms and a vehicle, after expressing fears he was suicidal.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and local officials condemned the violence, while federal authorities launched a public tip line as part of the ongoing investigation.