Over 2,000 Mourners Honor San Diego Mosque Victims as Authorities Label Attack a Hate Crime

More than 2,000 people attended a memorial for three men killed in a San Diego mosque shooting, and police are investigating the attack as a hate crime.

On Monday morning, two teenage suspects opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego during school hours. The gunfire prompted a security guard and two bystanders to confront the attackers, actions that authorities say likely prevented further casualties.

The three men who died—security guard Amin Abdullah, handyman Mansour Kaziha, and worshipper Nadir Awad—were later described by attendees as heroes for trying to stop the shooting and protect children inside the mosque.

Over 2,000 mourners filled a local park for the Islamic funeral prayer, known as Janazah, on Thursday. Many wore plain clothes, while some arrived in police uniforms to show solidarity.

Imam Taha Hassane told the crowd that the community is hurt but standing strong and firm, noting that people had traveled from across the United States to pay their respects.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said the attack is being investigated as a hate crime unless evidence proves otherwise, adding that investigators are treating it as a targeted act from the outset.

The memorial highlighted both grief and resolve, with speakers emphasizing unity and the need to counter rising Islamophobia through community outreach and education.

Authorities will continue to examine the suspects’ backgrounds, any possible extremist links, and the motive behind the attack, while local leaders plan additional vigils and support initiatives for affected families.