Cain Clark was reportedly identified after a deadly mosque attack shocked families across San Diego.
Two teenage suspects in Monday’s deadly shooting outside the Islamic Center of San Diego have been identified in media reports as 17 year old Cain Clark and 18 year old Caleb Velasquez. The names were reported by the New York Post, which cited a law enforcement source.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the suspects’ names in official statements reviewed so far. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl has said the suspects were 17 and 18 years old, and that investigators are treating the attack as a hate crime.
Read the latest reporting from The Associated Press and Reuters.
Cain Clark Reportedly Attended Madison High School
Clark attended Madison High School in San Diego and was known as a wrestler, according to the New York Post, which cited the school’s social media page. A family member told the outlet that relatives were shocked by the attack.
The Post also reported that Velasquez was identified as the second suspect. Because police have not officially released the names, both identifications remain based on media reporting and unnamed law enforcement sourcing.
That detail matters in a fast moving case. In major investigations, early names and personal details can change as officials verify evidence and notify families.
Three Men Were Killed Outside the Mosque
The shooting happened outside the Islamic Center of San Diego in the Clairemont area on Monday, May 18, 2026. Police said three men were killed before the suspects died nearby.
One of the victims was a mosque security guard, identified in reports as Amin Abdullah. Police credited him with helping prevent more deaths during the attack.
The Islamic Center also includes a school. Officials said children and staff were safely escorted away after police swarmed the area.
Police Investigate Hate Crime Evidence
Chief Wahl said investigators found evidence tied to hate related rhetoric. He did not release full details about the material during the briefing.
The New York Post reported that anti Islamic writings were found in the suspects’ vehicle and that hate speech appeared on firearms. Reuters and AP reported that police are investigating the attack as a hate crime, but officials have not announced a final motive.
The U.S. Department of Justice says hate crimes are acts motivated by bias against religion, race, national origin, disability, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Read the federal hate crime overview from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Police Were Searching Before the Attack
Police said the mother of one suspect called 911 earlier Monday morning. She reported that her son had left home, that she feared for his safety, and that weapons and a vehicle were missing.
Chief Wahl said officers began searching before the mosque shooting. He said the threat level rose when officers learned the teen was with another person and wearing camouflage clothing.
Officers reached the mosque within minutes after emergency calls came in. Between 50 and 100 officers helped clear the mosque, school areas, and nearby buildings.
Faith Leaders Say the Attack Hit a Place of Peace
Imam Taha Hassane, director of the Islamic Center of San Diego, called the attack outrageous. He said the mosque serves both Muslims and the wider community through prayer, education, and interfaith outreach.
Earlier that same day, a group of non Muslim visitors had reportedly toured the mosque to learn about Islam. That detail made the violence feel even more painful for community members.
The Islamic Center says its mission includes serving the Muslim community and working with people of all faiths to help those in need. Read more about the center through the Islamic Center of San Diego.
What Comes Next
The FBI is helping local police review evidence and search for answers. Investigators are expected to examine the suspects’ online activity, writings, family reports, and movements before the attack.
For now, the biggest question remains why two teenagers allegedly targeted a house of worship where children were present. The answer may shape how San Diego and other cities protect faith communities in the days ahead.
For families at the Islamic Center, the loss is already clear. Three men went to a place of prayer and community, and they never came home.