The Muslim community in San Diego is mourning three beloved community members who lost their lives while helping protect others during a violent incident outside the Islamic Center of San Diego. Community leaders say the men’s quick actions helped keep nearly 140 children and families inside the mosque safe as emergency lockdown procedures were activated.
Community Members Praised for Protecting Others
The three men have been identified as Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nadir Awad. Local leaders and worshippers are describing them as heroes who stepped forward during a moment of chaos to help protect the mosque community.
Amin Abdullah, a longtime security guard at the Islamic Center, reportedly helped trigger emergency lockdown measures and confronted the armed suspects outside the building, giving children and staff valuable time to move to safety.
Community members say Mansour Kaziha and Nadir Awad also acted courageously while trying to assist others and contact emergency services during the frightening moments outside the mosque.
Children Safely Escorted From the Mosque
Authorities confirmed that children attending classes inside the Islamic Center were safely evacuated after lockdown procedures were activated. Video shared by local media showed young students being carefully guided away from the area by officers and staff members.
The Islamic Center of San Diego includes a school and educational programs for children, making the swift response especially important for families gathered inside at the time.
Community leaders later said regular safety drills may have helped prevent an even more devastating outcome.
Authorities Investigating Extremist Motive
Federal and local investigators say the two teenage suspects appeared to have been influenced by online extremist content and hateful ideologies. Officials reportedly recovered writings and materials connected to racist and anti-Muslim beliefs.
The FBI and San Diego police are continuing to investigate the incident as a possible hate-related crime.
Religious and community leaders across California have condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the Muslim community following the tragedy.
Families and Community Gather in Support
Vigils and prayers have been held in honor of the three men, with community members remembering them for their kindness, dedication, and years of service.
Friends described Amin Abdullah as a welcoming figure who always prioritized the safety of others. Mansour Kaziha was remembered as a longtime caretaker deeply connected to the mosque community, while Nadir Awad was praised for immediately rushing to help when he heard the disturbance outside.
Messages of support have also come from interfaith groups and public officials calling for unity and protection of religious communities.
Key Takeaways
- Three members of the Islamic Center of San Diego community are being remembered as heroes after helping protect others during a violent incident.
- The men were identified as Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nadir Awad.
- Emergency lockdown procedures helped keep children and families inside the mosque safe.
- Authorities say the suspects may have been influenced by extremist online content.
- The FBI and local police are continuing a hate-crime investigation.
- Vigils and community gatherings are being held to honor the victims and support their families.
Community leaders say the bravery shown by the three men helped save lives and brought people together during one of the most heartbreaking moments the San Diego Muslim community has faced in years.