Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Shooting at El Cajon Dental Practice Leaves One Dead, Two Injured
One person was tragically killed and two others were injured in a devastating shooting that took place at a dental practice in El Cajon, California, just 15 miles from the bustling city of San Diego. The incident, which occurred on Thursday evening, has left the community in shock and disbelief.
Suspect in Custody After Fleeing the Scene
The El Cajon Police Department initially reported that there were “at least three victims” involved in the shooting. The suspect, identified as Mohammed Abdulkareem, 29, reportedly fled the scene in a U-Haul truck. However, law enforcement officials were able to apprehend him later that same evening. Abdulkareem is currently in custody, but authorities have warned that he is considered armed and dangerous.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting took place at a dental center located on the 400 block of North Magnolia, according to emergency scanner reports cited by The Los Angeles Times. Sgt. Eric Thornton of the El Cajon Police Department confirmed that the incident resulted in one fatality and two individuals sustaining injuries.
Victims and Injuries
Smile Plus Dentistry, where the shooting occurred, is operated by the father-and-son team of doctors Jack and Benjamin Harouni. The office’s receptionist, Yareli Carrillo, 28, was shot in the legs but is currently in stable condition and expected to recover. Another male victim in his 40s, who has not been named, was also injured but is expected to survive.
Community Response and Support
Following the tragic incident, the El Cajon community has come together to show support for the victims and their families. Benjamin Harouni, an Orthodox Jew and a dentist at the practice, was sadly identified as the individual who lost his life in the shooting. Members of the nonprofit organization Misaskim, which provides assistance to the bereaved, stayed at the scene overnight to ensure that Harouni’s body was treated with respect according to Jewish law.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the El Cajon Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The community is mourning the loss of Benjamin Harouni and praying for the speedy recovery of those injured in this senseless act of violence.
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