An active shooter situation at the Islamic Center of San Diego left at least one person dead Tuesday as heavily armed police units secured the Clairemont Mesa neighborhood after emergency calls shortly before noon.
SUMMARY
- San Diego police confirmed one death in the active shooter incident.
- Interstate 805 ramps near Balboa Avenue were temporarily closed.
- California state agencies coordinated with local law enforcement response.
The active shooter situation unfolded at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Eckstrom Avenue, drawing federal, state and local scrutiny over security at US religious institutions in March 2026.
Authorities established a reunification center while tactical teams swept nearby buildings.
The incident began around 11:40 AM, according to the San Diego Police Department. By 12:44 PM, police described the scene as “contained” though still active. Mayor Todd Gloria and California Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed ongoing briefings.
Brian Levin, founder of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, said attacks targeting faith centers increasingly create “regional fear beyond immediate casualties.”
Former FBI counterterrorism official Christopher O’Leary said mosque security planning has intensified nationwide since multiple threats against religious facilities in recent years.
The active shooter situation is expected to intensify debate over faith site security funding through 2026.
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