Tragic Story of Security Guard Killed While Preventing Shooting at San Diego Mosque
The bravery of a security guard who was fatally shot alongside two other worshippers at a mosque in San Diego on Monday (18/05) prevented a much more devastating attack, according to police. The security guard has been identified as Amin Abdullah, a father of eight children, according to Tazheen Nizam, a spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations-San Diego (CAIR-SD).
“It can be said that his actions were heroic,” stated San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl during a press conference on Tuesday (19/05). “There is no doubt that he saved many lives today.”
Abdullah and two others, Mansour Kaziha and Nader Awad, were killed by two teenagers who subsequently committed suicide, police reported. The identities of the two teenagers have not yet been released by the police.
According to authorities, as the two teenagers ran past Abdullah at the mosque entrance, Abdullah opened fire, prompting them to return fire. Abdullah also managed to lock the mosque doors, preventing the teenagers from entering the building. This action saved numerous lives, including 140 children at a school that is part of the mosque complex, according to Chief Wahl.
The two other victims were later targeted by the suspects in the car park, where they were also shot and killed. Wahl stated that the response initiated by Abdullah “undoubtedly” prompted the suspects to flee.
Those who knew Abdullah told US media that he was a pillar of the community. Other residents on social media described him as “the kindest person I have ever met.” The mosque described him as a brave man who placed himself at the forefront of safety for others, even in his final moments.
A spokesperson for CAIR stated that Abdullah was loved by all and was a “true hero.” A family friend noted that Abdullah had worked at the mosque for over ten years and was known for his desire to protect the innocent.
An online fundraiser for the three victims had raised over US$2.9 million (approximately Rp51.4 billion) by Tuesday afternoon. The shooting is being investigated as a hate crime, with authorities noting the involvement of “hate rhetoric.” During searches of three residences linked to the suspects, authorities seized over 30 firearms and a crossbow. The weapons, which included pistols and rifles, were registered to one of the suspects’ parents, according to FBI Special Agent Mark Remily.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria stated that the suspects do not represent the city, but rather the three Muslim men do. US Vice President JD Vance described the shooting as “unacceptable” and called for prayer for those involved, emphasising that political violence of any kind has no place in the United States.