A shooting attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday left several people dead, including the suspected gunmen, after what police described as a chaotic and fast-moving incident at the mosque complex in San Diego.

Authorities said officers responded shortly before noon to reports of an active shooter at the Islamic center in the Clairemont neighborhood. The mosque complex also houses a religious school, raising immediate fears for the safety of children and staff on site.

By early afternoon, the San Diego Police Department announced that the threat had been “neutralized,” though officials initially released few details about what unfolded inside the complex.

Later reports indicated that at least five people died during the attack, including two teenage suspects believed to have carried out the shooting. Authorities said three adult victims were killed, among them a security guard who officials said may have prevented the massacre from becoming even worse. Investigators believe the suspects later died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds after fleeing the mosque area.

Police Chief Scott Wahl reportedly described the scene as “extremely chaotic” as heavily armed officers flooded the area and evacuated worshippers, schoolchildren, and nearby residents. Helicopter footage showed tactical teams surrounding the complex while officers searched buildings and rooftops.

Officials said no teachers or students were injured during the attack. Witnesses described children being evacuated in organized groups as police secured the property.

Authorities are investigating the shooting as a possible hate crime, though the motive has not yet been officially confirmed. Police said the suspects are believed to have been 17 and 19 years old.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria praised emergency responders for their rapid reaction, saying law enforcement acted quickly “to protect lives and secure the area.”

The office of Gavin Newsom said the governor was monitoring developments closely and coordinating with local authorities responding to the attack.

The San Diego chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned the attack and emphasized the need to protect houses of worship and schools from violence.

Police established a reunification center nearby for families affected by the shooting, while mosque officials directed parents to a nearby church where evacuated children could be safely picked up.