Three Men Killed in Shooting at San Diego Islamic Center

Authorities in San Diego released photos of the three men killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego on May 18, 2026. The victims were identified as 51-year-old security guard Amin Abdullah, 78-year-old Mansour Kaziha, and 57-year-old Nadir Awad.

Wahl said Abdullah engaged the two suspects in a gun battle after they ran past him. "His actions, without a doubt, delayed, distracted and deterred these two individuals from gaining access to the greater areas of the mosque where as many as 140 kids were within 15 feet of these suspects," Wahl said. Abdullah radioed a lockdown before continuing the exchange of fire, according to Wahl.

Awad drew the suspects into a parking lot where they were killed, Wahl said. Kaziha, who managed the mosque store for nearly 40 years, was the first to call 911. Awad lived across the street and rushed to help after hearing gunfire, according to Imam Taha Hassane.

Both suspects, ages 17 and 18, died from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. FBI Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily said multiple search warrants were executed and firearms were seized. "These subjects did not discriminate on who they hated," Remily said.

Anti-Islamic writings were found in the suspects' vehicle, sources told ABC News. The shooting is being investigated as a hate crime. " — San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, May 19, 2026 (ABC News) >"We strongly condemn this horrifying act of violence.