More Than 2,000 Mourn 3 Men Killed Stopping San Diego Mosque Attack
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · May 21
More Than 2,000 Mourn 3 Men Killed Stopping San Diego Mosque Attack
11 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · May 21
More than 2,000 mourners gathered in a San Diego park for Janazah prayers for Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha and Nadir Awad, who were killed trying to stop Monday’s shooting at the city’s largest mosque.
Police said the three men’s actions likely prevented further bloodshed: Abdullah, 51, exchanged fire with the two teenage attackers and ordered a lockdown at the mosque’s school, which had 140 students on site.
Kaziha, 78, and Awad, 57, ran toward the gunfire to help after hearing shots; all three later died of their injuries and were to be buried side by side later Thursday.
San Diego police are treating the attack as a possible hate crime, and mourners said the shooting has left Muslims across the United States on edge amid rising Islamophobia.
The attackers drew inspiration from past killers. How can society break the cycle of copycat attacks glorified in extremist online subcultures?
The killers' manifesto and livestream were found online. What is the tech industry’s role in preventing the next attack?
Tragedy at the Islamic Center of San Diego: Analyzing the May 18, 2026 Attack, Online Extremism, and Paths to Healing
Overview
On May 18, 2026, the Islamic Center of San Diego was violently attacked, shocking the community and prompting immediate condemnation from state leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom. His strong statement highlighted the seriousness of the event and the need to protect places of worship. The aftermath brought deep grief and a powerful call for solidarity, reminding everyone of the vulnerability faith communities face. This tragedy underscored the importance of standing together against hate and ensuring that spaces meant for peace and fellowship remain safe from targeted violence.