Tragedy at the Islamic Center of San Diego

Two teenage gunmen killed three men with close ties to the mosque before dying from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The incident occurred on Monday at the Islamic Center of San Diego.

Lockdown procedures, initiated by adults on-site, kept approximately 140 children in preschool through third grade safe.

Authorities confirmed that swift action by adults prevented further casualties. A 2023 study from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia indicates that children within a five-block radius of a shooting are more likely to visit emergency rooms for anxiety and suicidal thoughts in subsequent weeks.

Psychological Impact on Children

Psychologist Julie Kaplow (Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute) stated that individuals directly exposed to such events face the highest risk for post-traumatic stress. Symptoms in children may include:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Avoidance of reminders of the event
• Irritability and clinginess
• Behavioral regressions (e.g., loss of potty training)
• Increased anxiety

Dr. Kaplow noted that children with a prior history of trauma may experience exacerbated symptoms.

Recommendations for Caregivers

Mental health experts provided the following guidance for parents and caregivers:

Open Communication

Parents are advised to ask children what they know and what questions they have, allowing the child to guide the conversation. Avoiding the topic is not recommended.

Age-Appropriate Information

Information should be tailored to the child’s age. Misconceptions should be corrected gently. Unnecessary graphic details should not be provided.

Focus on Safety

Instead of offering false reassurance, parents are advised to explain concrete measures the family can take to stay safe, emphasizing aspects within their control.

Calming Techniques

Experts recommend teaching grounding exercises (e.g., naming five things seen, four touched, three heard, two smelled, one tasted), deep breathing, walking, or listening to music.

Caregiver Self-Care

Dr. Vera Feuer (Child Mind Institute) advised parents to process their own reactions and seek support for themselves in order to effectively support their children.

Available Resources

• Dr. Kaplow noted that behavioral health providers in affected communities often mobilize to provide immediate care.
• The Lucine Center for Grief and Trauma is offering teletherapy for children and adolescents experiencing trauma or bereavement.