UPDATE: The threat has been “neutralized”, according to an update from police. NBC San Diego is reporting that 2 suspects were shot and killed, though police have not confirmed this. A mosque official confirms that the center’s security guard is among the dead. Details soon.
Police and other emergency services are responding to reports of an active shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, local officials and witnesses say. At least 2 people have been killed and there are multiple injuries.
The incident began at around 12 p.m. on Monday when officers were called to the 7000 block of Eckstrom Avenue for reports of an active shooter at the mosque, which is the largest in San Diego County.
There are multiple casualties, according to officers at the scene, and at least 2 bodies were visible from outside on the street.
A large number of officers, including heavily-armed SWAT teams, are responding to the scene to secure the area. Groups of people were seen being evacuated from the mosque.
WATCH LIVE: Click here for local TV coverage from NBC San Diego
San Diego Police said in an initial statement: “SDPD is on scene at the Islamic Center of San Diego in the 7000 block of Eckstrom Ave for a reported active shooter. Please avoid the area. Updates to follow.”
In an update at 12:43 p.m., police said: “The scene at 7050 Eckstrom Ave is still active but contained. We have significant resources on scene at this time. We have established a reunification location at 4125 Hathaway Street, SD, CA 92111.”
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said: “I am aware of the active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont and am continuing to receive updates from law enforcement. Emergency personnel are on scene and actively working to protect the community and secure the area.”
Islamophobe just shot up a Islamic Center of San Diego.pic.twitter.com/D3nRtqRiPi
Source: Drudge Report
