The FBI San Diego Field Office says it continues to assist local authorities in the investigation of the May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, an attack that left three victims dead before the two teenage suspects took their own lives. In its initial statement, the FBI confirmed it was aware of the active shooter incident and was supporting law enforcement partners while assessing the situation. The agency noted that the scene was fluid at the time and that no further comment could be provided during the early response phase.
Subsequent information from federal and local officials shows investigators are examining extensive writings, online activity, and materials linked to the two suspects, ages 17 and 18. According to FBI Special Agent Mark Remily, the teenagers met online and were radicalized in digital spaces where they shared white supremacist views and expressed broad hatred toward multiple groups. Authorities say the writings recovered include rhetoric targeting Jewish people, Muslims, the LGBTQ+ community, Black people, women, and political groups across the spectrum. Remily said the pair “didn’t discriminate on who they hated,” and investigators are working to determine whether the suspects had broader plans.
Search warrants executed at two residences connected to the suspects led to the recovery of more than 30 firearms, ammunition, and a crossbow. Officials also confirmed the discovery of additional extremist symbols and materials at the scene. Investigators are reviewing a lengthy document circulating online that appears to contain hate‑filled essays attributed to the suspects. Authorities are also analyzing a video that reportedly shows one suspect approaching the Islamic Center wearing camouflage and extremist patches before the attack unfolded.
Law enforcement officials say the suspects exchanged gunfire with a security guard at the mosque, whose actions helped delay the attackers and protect more than 100 children on the property. The suspects fled the scene and were later found deceased in a nearby vehicle. The FBI continues to support the investigation as authorities work to understand the full scope of the planning, ideology, and online activity that preceded the attack.
Sources
- FBI
- AP News
- US News
- AOL
- FOX 5 San Diego