El Cajon, California – A tragic event unfolded as a disgruntled former patient opened fire at a dental office in El Cajon, resulting in the death of a licensed dentist, Benjamin Ariel Harouni, and injuring two others. The suspect, identified as Mohammed Abdulkareem, 29, fled the scene in a rented U-Haul pickup but was later captured by authorities. Investigations suggest that Abdulkareem was motivated by his dissatisfaction as a former customer of the dental office.
El Cajon police stated that while the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, there is no indication that the attack was racially or politically motivated. Abdulkareem, armed with a loaded handgun and multiple magazines, had legally purchased the weapon two weeks prior to the incident. The swift action of eyewitnesses aided law enforcement in locating the suspect, leading to his arrest without further incident.
The local community mourned the loss of Harouni, described as a compassionate and dedicated individual with a promising future ahead of him. The Chabad of Downtown San Diego remembered him as a valuable member of their community, highlighting his commitment to his family’s dental practice. Abdulkareem, booked on suspicion of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder, remained in custody awaiting his arraignment.
Anwer Abdulkareem, the suspect’s brother, disclosed that Abdulkareem had displayed concerning behavior in recent months, expressing paranoia and delusions. Despite efforts by the family to persuade him to seek help, Abdulkareem’s mental state continued to deteriorate. As the investigation continues, authorities aim to uncover the full extent of the circumstances surrounding the tragic shooting, shedding light on the events that led to such a heartbreaking outcome.
The El Cajon community remains in shock following the violent incident, grappling with the repercussions of the senseless act of violence that claimed the life of a beloved dentist and left two others wounded. As details emerge and the legal process unfolds, the community seeks answers and grapples with the aftermath of a tragic event that has deeply impacted all those involved. While the investigation progresses, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victims and understanding the complex factors that contributed to this devastating incident.