Hero security guard who died protecting worshippers in San Diego mosque attack identified as father of eight
A longtime security guard credited by authorities with helping prevent greater bloodshed during the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego has been identified as Amin Abdullah, a father of eight remembered by those who knew him as a deeply caring figure within the community.
Abdullah was among three people connected to the Islamic center who lost their lives after two teenage gunmen allegedly launched an attack at the mosque in San Diego’s Clairemont neighborhood on Monday.
According to San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, Abdullah’s response during the opening moments of the shooting helped contain the danger and save lives.
“We do believe the security guard was able to help at least minimize the situation,” Wahl said. “At this point, I think it’s fair to say his actions were heroic. Undoubtedly, he saved lives today.”
Officials later said Abdullah confronted the unfolding threat near the mosque entrance, enacted emergency lockdown measures and helped limit the attackers’ movement. Police said those actions protected numerous people inside the complex, including children attending the school connected to the Islamic center.
Community remembers a familiar face
Tributes quickly poured in from worshippers, colleagues and community members mourning a man many described as a constant and reassuring presence.
Tazheen Nizam, a spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations San Diego, told the BBC that Abdullah was “loved by everybody” and known for welcoming worshippers and students alike.
“He was a shining light,” Nizam said. “He is a true hero, a martyr.”
Friends and acquaintances speaking to multiple outlets described him as approachable, kind and committed to serving others. One mourner called him “the nicest man you’ll ever meet.”
A fellow security worker, Anees Faraj, told the Daily Mail through his daughter, who translated from Arabic, that news of the attack left him stunned. Faraj, who had worked security at the mosque for years, said he narrowly avoided being present because he was not scheduled to work that day.
The other victims were identified by community representatives as Nader Awad and Mansour Kaziha. Community members said Awad rushed toward the scene after hearing gunfire, concerned because his wife worked at the center’s school. Kaziha was involved in maintaining the mosque grounds and convenience store.
Police said the actions of all three victims disrupted the attack and may have prevented additional deaths.
Investigation expands after deadly shooting
Authorities said the violence unfolded roughly two hours after police received a report from a mother who said her teenage son had fled with weapons and might be suicidal.
The suspects, identified in one report as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Velasquez, 18, allegedly carried out the attack before fleeing. Officers later found the pair dead inside a vehicle from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Investigators are examining the case as a possible hate-motivated attack.
Wahl said authorities are reviewing alleged anti-Islamic material, extremist writings and symbols connected to the suspects. Federal investigators also reported recovering writings outlining religious and racial beliefs, along with a manifesto. Searches linked to the suspects uncovered more than 30 firearms and a crossbow, according to investigators.
Police said emergency personnel reached the Islamic Center within minutes of the first calls, launching a large-scale search of classrooms, prayer spaces and surrounding buildings.
The shooting took place during Dhu’l-Hijja, a sacred period in the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide.
Public officials condemned the violence in the aftermath. California Governor Gavin Newsom said worshippers should never fear for their safety, while Vice-President JD Vance described the shooting as “reprehensible,” calling political violence unacceptable in the United States.
The Islamic Center of San Diego, one of the region’s largest Muslim institutions with thousands of members, continues to grieve the loss of three men closely tied to its community.
For many mourning the attack, Amin Abdullah’s final actions have come to define his legacy: protecting others even as danger unfolded around him
