North Carolina Teen Charged With Murder for Livestreaming San Diego Mosque Attack

The shooting took place on May 18, 2026, at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Two teenage gunmen attacked the mosque, resulting in the deaths of three men.

According to the BBC and The Independent, authorities soon discovered that the attack was not only violent but also publicized online. A 17-year-old girl, later identified as Sarah Lindsey Santiago from North Carolina, allegedly recorded and broadcast the shooting as it happened. She also shared the attackers' manifesto, which contained white supremacist rhetoric.

The investigation quickly focused on how the attack was coordinated and the role of online propaganda in amplifying its impact.

Authorities initially responded to the scene in San Diego, where three people were confirmed dead. As details emerged, law enforcement learned that the attack had been livestreamed and that extremist materials were circulating online.

By late August 2026, prosecutors in North Carolina indicted Sarah Santiago on charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy. According to the New York Post and CBS, she was accused not only of recording the massacre but also of assisting the shooters by distributing their writings and message.

On August 31, 2026, several outlets including ABC News and AP News reported that Santiago was formally charged with murder. The District Attorney's office said she played a direct role in the attack's planning and online amplification.

By September 1, 2026, Time.news and Euronews reported that Santiago would be tried as an adult. Authorities stated that her actions helped spread the shooters' ideology and contributed to the deadly outcome. Prosecutors described the case as a rare example of a minor being charged with murder for promoting and aiding a terrorist attack.

Sarah Lindsey Santiago remains in custody in North Carolina, facing three counts of first-degree murder and one count of conspiracy. According to Al Jazeera and the BBC, she could face life in prison if convicted.

Authorities are still investigating the full extent of her involvement, including any potential links to extremist groups or other individuals who may have contributed to the planning or execution of the attack.

The case is expected to move to trial, with significant attention on how the court will handle a minor accused of such serious crimes. Observers are also watching for any updates on accomplices or broader hate crime investigations linked to the shooting.