San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria was interrupted and heckled on Monday during a news conference held hours after a shooting at a local mosque that left five people dead.
Authorities said three victims were killed in the incident at the Islamic Center of San Diego, California earlier in the day. Two suspected teenage gunmen also died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds, according to law enforcement.
Before Gloria delivered a public statement, a woman in the audience shouted at him and blamed him for the attack, saying it was a “direct result” of his leadership.
“You emboldened Zionist propaganda. And you’ll keep doing it as long as it lines with your f*cking pockets,” the woman said.
Gloria has in the past expressed support for Israel.
At the news conference, Gloria said: "Hate has no home in San Diego. Islamophobia has no home in San Diego. An attack on any San Diegan is an attack on all San Diegans, and we will not stand for it."
California governor says will ‘not tolerate acts of terror’
California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Monday that he will “not tolerate acts of terror” against religious communities.
In a statement, Newsom said that he is “horrified by today’s violent attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, where families and children gather, and neighbors worship in peace and fellowship.”
“Today, this community space was shattered by gunfire. California sends our deepest condolences to the families and communities impacted by today’s shooting,” Newsom said.
“Worshippers anywhere should not have to fear for their lives. Hate has no place in California, and we will not tolerate acts of terror or intimidation against communities of faith,” he added.
“To the San Diego Muslim community: California stands with you.”
Lawmakers express support for victims’ families
Meanwhile, US lawmakers expressed support for the families of the victims of the fatal shooting on Monday.
California Sen. Adam Schiff said on X that he is “heartbroken" by the shooting. "My prayers are with the families of the three precious lives lost today,” he said.
“Today's shooting is a horrific attack on Southern California's Muslim community. Every American should be able to practice their faith without fear of violence. And we must never be silent in the face of hate.
“My heart is with all San Diego families during this terrible tragedy,” he added.
California Congresswoman Sara Jacobs said on X: “To the Muslim community in San Diego and across the country: know that you’re not alone. We have your back and we’ll get through this together.”
“I am heartbroken for the families who are mourning their loved ones,” she added.
Brooklyn Congressman Hakeem Jeffries said on X he is “deeply disturbed by the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego."
“My prayers are with the victims, their families and the Clairemont community. We must crush Islamophobia and the hatred that is fueling it,” he added.
California Sen. Alex Padilla said on X he is “praying for the victims, their families, and the entire San Diego community,” adding that his office is closely monitoring the incident.
