In response to the tragic mass shooting on May 18, where the San Diego mosque faced an unimaginable attack, the Islamic Center of San Diego is revamping its security measures to avert future incidents.
During this devastating event, two attackers opened fire, resulting in the loss of three lives, including that of a security guard. The gunmen were later found dead in their vehicle, having taken their own lives.
Amidst an ongoing investigation by law enforcement, the center has announced on its website that local police will maintain a presence at the site for the foreseeable future. Additionally, they are collaborating with security experts to explore enhanced protective strategies and chart a secure course forward.
“Ensuring the safety of our children, families, staff, and the broader community is our utmost priority,” the center emphasized. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we undertake this crucial work.”
The center is also partnering with Bright Horizon Academy, the private Islamic school housed within the mosque, to address safety issues concerning the students. Many students were present during the attack, but thanks to the bravery of two victims who diverted the shooters, the children remained unharmed.
The mosque is still open for all daily prayers, and its front office reopened this past week.
“Given the high volume of calls, emails, and community needs, we kindly ask everyone to be patient and to keep in-person interactions with staff brief and respectful,” it said.
Money is pouring in to help those affected by the shooting, and the mosque made clear it would keep those funds separate from the general funds for the Islamic Center. A town hall is in the works, the center said in its update.
“We are one community, and in moments like this, we must come together with patience, mercy, wisdom, and trust in Allah,” the center said.
The San Diego community is still reeling from the shooting after two teens targeted the mosque due to what appeared to be anti-Islamic motivations, police said.
Follow The Post’s coverage on the deadly San Diego mosque shooting
Anti-Islamic writings and Nazi-affiliated gear were found in the vehicle of 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Velasquez, who were “radicalized online,” cops said.
The two teens “did not discriminate on who they hated,” law enforcement officials said in a press conference.
A security guard at the mosque engaged with the shooters which ultimately led to his sacrifice. The two other victims led the shooters to a parking lot away from children, helping prevent a more deadly incident.