Security Guard Hailed as Hero in San Diego Mosque Shooting
Amin Abdullah, a security guard at the Islamic Center of San Diego, is credited with saving lives during a deadly attack by two teenage gunmen.
On May 18, 2026, two teenage gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego, resulting in the deaths of three men, including security guard Amin Abdullah. The attackers, identified as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez, later died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds nearby.
Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime, noting that the suspects had expressed generalized hate rhetoric. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stated that Abdullah's actions likely prevented further loss of life.
The Islamic Center of San Diego, the city's largest mosque, serves a congregation of over 5,000 people and includes a religious school. The attack occurred during a time when children were present, all of whom were safely evacuated.
Community leaders and officials have condemned the violence, emphasizing the need to protect places of worship. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.