Thousands attend memorial for victims of mosque attack in San Diego

International Desk: PNN

Thousands of people attended a funeral and memorial service for three victims killed in a terrorist attack at a mosque in San Diego, California, USA. More than 2,000 people reportedly attended the event held at a local park in the city.

The victims were identified as security guard Amin Abdullah (51), Mansour Kaziha (78), and Nadir Awad (57). All of them were killed while trying to resist the attackers during the assault at San Diego’s largest Islamic center.

The funeral held on Thursday local time was attended by police officers and members of various communities. Following Islamic tradition, attendees stood in rows for funeral prayers and recited prayers in Arabic.

Mosque authorities said the victims courageously tried to handle the situation during the attack, which is believed to have prevented a larger loss of life. Security guard Amin Abdullah first confronted the attackers and quickly ordered a lockdown inside the mosque, allowing students and staff to take shelter safely.

Later, two individuals who heard gunfire from nearby rushed to help but were shot dead. Police said the attackers later fled the scene and then committed suicide by shooting themselves.

The San Diego Police Department said the incident is being investigated as a hate crime. Officials stated that the victims’ brave actions helped prevent a much larger tragedy.

The mosque’s imam, Taha Hassan, said the incident is a deep loss for the Muslim community but also carries a message of unity and resilience. He said people from various US states attended the funeral.

The family of Amin Abdullah said his courage and sense of duty make them proud. His son said that standing up to protect children and innocent people will remain his greatest legacy.

The attack has raised concerns among Muslim communities across the United States, particularly amid fears of rising religious hate crimes. Authorities are continuing a full investigation.