Police have responded to reports of an active shooter at an Islamic Center in San Diego, California. The San Diego Police Department confirmed the situation and advised locals to avoid the area. The incident began around 11:40 am local time. The Islamic Center, which houses the Al Rashid School offering various courses, is described as the largest mosque in San Diego County. It serves not only the Muslim community but also collaborates with others to assist the less fortunate and improve society.
Aerial footage showed children being escorted out of the center’s parking lot amid a heavy police presence. Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the situation and commended the first responders for their efforts. The San Diego Police Department announced that the threat at the Islamic center has been neutralized, although there are reports of injuries from gunshots.
The Mayor of San Diego, Todd Gloria, acknowledged the active shooter situation at the mosque and assured that emergency services were actively working to ensure community safety. The police have contained the area and deployed significant resources to the scene. Officer Anthony Carrasco mentioned that multiple shots were fired at the Islamic Center, located about 9 miles north of downtown San Diego. Pictures from NBC show armed police at the site following the incident.
In an official statement, the San Diego Police Department urged people to avoid the area around the Islamic Center due to the reported active shooter. Updates on the situation are expected as authorities continue to manage the incident.