More than 2,000 people gathered in San Diego to pay tribute to three men who lost their lives while trying to protect worshippers during a deadly attack at the city’s largest mosque. The emotional funeral prayer brought together families, community members, and police officers to remember the victims as heroes who sacrificed themselves to save others.
The victims, Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nadir Awad, were honored during a large Janazah prayer service held in a public park near the mosque. Their bodies were placed beneath a white canopy as mourners offered prayers and shared emotional memories of the men’s bravery and kindness.
Community leaders said the three men helped prevent an even greater tragedy by delaying the attackers and allowing children inside the mosque school to hide safely. According to police, nearly 140 students took shelter in closets and secure spaces during the terrifying incident.
Imam Taha Hassane praised the strength of the Muslim community and thanked supporters who traveled from across California and other states to attend the funeral. Many mourners described the victims as symbols of courage and unity during a difficult time for Muslims in the United States.
The FBI is investigating the shooting as a suspected hate crime, raising concerns about growing Islamophobia and anti Muslim hatred across the country. Several attendees called for stronger action against hate and violence targeting religious communities.
Amin Abdullah, who worked as a security guard at the mosque, reportedly used his radio to activate lockdown procedures before being killed in a gunfight with the teenage attackers. His son later said the family finds comfort in knowing he died while protecting innocent people.
The suspects later fled the scene and were found dead from self-inflicted gunshot wounds, according to authorities. The tragedy has deeply affected the local Muslim community, but mourners said the gathering showed resilience, unity, and hope in the face of hatred.
