Active shooter opens fire at San Diego Islamic Center, cops say
An active shooter has been reported at a mosque in San Diego.
According to the San Diego Police Department, the gunman opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Claremont around 11:40 a.m. PT on Monday.
Officer Anthony Carrasco told The Associated Press that multiple people were believed to have been shot.
The Muslim place of worship is also home to the Al Rashid school, officially known as the Islamic School of San Diego.
The crowd of young students was seen being evacuated from the building by law enforcement.
Panicked parents rushed to the scene to pick up their children from Al Rashid school in the centre.
While the terror was taking place, a woman was seen crouching outside the mosque, while many people were seen on the phone trying to get answers about what was happening.
An active shooter was reported to be at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Claremont around 11:40 a.m. PT on Monday.
Crowds of students are being evacuated from the building as the mosque also houses the Islamic School of San Diego
Police said the investigation into the shooting continues.
Authorities urged the public to avoid the area and closed portions of Interstate 805 near Balboa Boulevard due to police activity.
Following news of the shooting, San Diego Todd Gloria released a statement about X.
‘I am aware of the active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont and continue to receive updates from law enforcement.
‘Emergency personnel are at the scene and are actively working to protect the community and ensure the safety of the area.’
California Governor Gavin Newsom also acknowledged the shooting, writing: ‘We are grateful to the first responders who worked at the scene to protect the community and urge everyone to follow the guidance of local officials.’
The Islamic Center of San Diego is the largest mosque in San Diego County, with nearly 5,000 members in its congregation.
The story is being developed, check back for updates…
As panicked parents rush to the scene to get their children, many are trying to get answers about what happened by phone.
