A deadly shooting at an Islamic center in San Diego is being investigated as a potential hate crime, authorities said Tuesday, May 20.
Online materials believed to be connected to the shooters appear to fit a recognized pattern of white supremacist violence, according to NPR. Details about the number of casualties or the identities of the suspects haven’t been publicly released in the initial reporting.
The investigation
Authorities are examining digital evidence — posts and other online materials — that they believe are tied to those responsible for the attack. The content fits what investigators described as an established category of extremist violence rooted in white supremacy.
That’s a critical distinction. If the shooting is formally classified as a hate crime, it could carry enhanced federal charges on top of any state prosecution.
What isn’t known yet
Key questions remain unanswered. How many people died? Were others wounded? Have arrests been made, or are suspects still at large? NPR’s initial report didn’t include those specifics.
It’s also unclear whether any of the suspects had prior contact with law enforcement or known affiliations with extremist groups before the attack.
The FBI and local San Diego authorities are expected to provide more information as the investigation develops. No timeline for a press briefing has been announced.
NPR reported this story on May 20, 2026. Read the original report.
