Law enforcement agencies across Los Angeles County increased patrols around mosques and other houses of worship Monday following a deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego that left five people dead, including the two suspected gunmen.
San Diego police said the shooting occurred Monday morning in the Clairemont area while a school operating at the mosque was in session. Authorities said two gunmen, believed to be ages 17 and 19, opened fire before dying from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. A security guard at the center was one of the three victims killed.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said it was “actively assessing any potential threat to Los Angeles County” and had implemented increased patrol checks at critical facilities.
“Violence has no place in our society, and we remain committed to protecting our communities in Los Angeles County,” the department said in a statement posted on social media.
The Los Angeles Police Department also announced increased patrols at mosques, Islamic centers and houses of worship throughout the city.
“Currently, there is no known threat to Los Angeles, but the LAPD remains vigilant,” the department said in a statement. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are providing extra patrols at mosques, Islamic centers and all houses of worship across the city to ensure our communities are safe and feel supported.”
Mayor Karen Bass said she was “outraged and heartbroken” by the shooting, noting that the attack occurred on the first day of Dhul Hijjah, a sacred period for Muslims.
“Houses of worship must be true sanctuaries where hate and violence have no place,” Bass said in a statement. “I stand firmly with the Muslim community and condemn this horrific attack.”
Bass said she had spoken with Muslim community leaders in Los Angeles and directed the LAPD to deploy additional resources to protect mosques across the city.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn also issued a statement condemning the shooting and expressing support for the Muslim community.
“Early reports are that these shooters were just 17 and 19 years old and it is disturbing that two people so young could be filled with such hate. My heart goes out to the families of the victims and I stand with the Muslim community both in San Diego and here in Los Angeles County in the wake of this tragedy,” Hahn said.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said its Los Angeles Field Division was assisting state and local authorities with the investigation alongside the FBI and San Diego police.