A tense afternoon unfolded at the Islamic Center of Tacoma on Wednesday after a man walked into the mosque carrying a gun, prompting a multi-hour police response and evacuations, authorities said. Worshippers and staff were cleared from the building, and there were no reported injuries. The man left the mosque before SWAT teams arrived and was later taken into custody after attempting to run. Police blocked nearby streets while officers methodically cleared the building and searched the scene.
The Tacoma Police Department said officers were first called at about 3:23 p.m. and quickly set up a perimeter around the Islamic Center. According to officers, the building was evacuated while the armed man remained inside, and the suspect was arrested at about 5:30 p.m. after trying to flee on foot, as reported by The News Tribune.
Why the response alarmed neighbors
The incident at the Tacoma mosque unfolded against a backdrop of heightened concern about violence at houses of worship nationwide. Less than a month earlier, a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego left three people dead, a stark reminder that religious spaces can be targeted, The Associated Press reported.
Charges and investigation
Tacoma police said the suspect will be booked into the Pierce County Jail on suspicion of first-degree assault, unlawful possession of a firearm, obstructing a law enforcement officer and intimidation with a weapon. Officers added that drugs or mental-health challenges could be among the factors under review, and that the person may face additional charges if investigators find property damage. Those details were provided to reporters and summarized by The News Tribune.
Where the case goes next
The suspect is expected to be processed at the county jail while detectives continue interviews and gather evidence. Pierce County’s Corrections Bureau lists the main jail reception on Tacoma Avenue South and maintains an online jail roster and inmate services pages for booking updates and contact information, per Pierce County Corrections.
