San Diego mosque shooters met online and shared hateful views, FBI says

The FBI confirmed Tuesday that the two teenagers responsible for the San Diego mosque shooting met online and shared hateful views toward multiple religions and races. Authorities described their writings as reflecting a 'broad hatred,' though specific ideologies were not disclosed. During searches of their homes, police recovered 30 firearms and a crossbow, raising concerns about potential broader plans. The Islamic Center of San Diego, where the attack occurred, also serves as a school. The shooting began Monday after the mother of one suspect reported her 17-year-old son had run away, with weapons and her vehicle missing from their home. Two hours later, the suspects arrived at the mosque, killing themselves after the attack. Three men died: security guard Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nader Awad. Authorities found no direct threat against the mosque but identified 'generalized hate rhetoric' among the suspects. The attack follows a rise in hate crimes targeting Muslim and Jewish communities amid Middle East tensions. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated the victims helped delay the gunman, preventing a larger tragedy. Abdullah, a 10-year mosque employee, was described as a defender of the innocent. Imam Taha Hassane called the victims 'men of courage, sacrifice, and faith,' noting their absence leaves an irreplaceable void. Muslim American groups condemned the surge in anti-Muslim rhetoric, emphasizing its dangerous consequences. The investigation remains ongoing as officials piece together the suspects' motives and connections. The attack marks another violent incident targeting places of worship in recent months.