El Cajon, California – Authorities in El Cajon, California, are investigating a tragic shooting incident that occurred at a local dental office. The shooting, which took place on Thursday afternoon, resulted in the death of licensed dentist Benjamin Ariel Harouni, 28, who sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the torso.
The alleged shooter, identified as Mohammed Abdulkareem, a 29-year-old former patient of the dental office, fled the scene in a rented U-Haul pickup truck. Fortunately, eyewitness accounts helped law enforcement track down Abdulkareem, who was later captured without incident. Police have revealed that Abdulkareem legally armed himself just two weeks before the attack.
While the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, authorities have stated that there is no indication that the attack was racially or politically motivated. The suspect has been booked on suspicion of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder and is currently in custody awaiting his court appearance.
Family members of the suspect have expressed concerns about his mental state, noting that he had exhibited troubling behavior in recent months. Despite efforts to convince him to seek help, Abdulkareem’s family was unable to intervene successfully.
The Chabad of Downtown San Diego remembered Harouni as a caring and dedicated young man with a promising future ahead of him. He had recently joined his family’s dental practice, which they had built up in the San Diego area.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident that claimed the life of a promising young dentist. The community is left mourning the loss of Harouni and grappling with the aftermath of the violent attack that unfolded in a place meant for healing and care.