Two more members of San Diego Muslim community have been identified among those killed in Monday’s horror shooting at a local Islamic center.
Nader Awad and Mansoor Kazziha were named as victims of the rampage, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations-San Diego and the Islamic Center of San Diego.
A third victim, security guard Amin Abdullah, was hailed a hero for his actions in helping prevent further casualties.
The alleged gunmen were identified as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez, according to a law enforcement source. At least one of the suspects took a weapon from his parents’ home and left a suicide note that talked about racial pride, a law enforcement source told The California Post.
A day after the killings, posts honoring Kazziha as “Uncle Mansoor” circulated online, with several community members remembering him as a “neighbor of the masjid” and “the protector” who lived a devoted life of service.
“Hearing the danger, he ran from the safety of his own home toward the masjid, rushing to apprehend the murderers and save the children,” read one Instagram post honoring him.
Kazziha, known in the community as “Abul Ez,” reportedly played an active role in the mosque community and managed a store at the mosque for nearly 40 years.
Awad was at the mosque when the incident happened and reportedly died while trying to save his wife, who was a teacher at the Islamic school, according to a post shared by his daughter on Instagram confirming his death.
“I am beyond proud of him, and beyond proud to call him my father, habibi baba,” she wrote.
“He heard gunshots and ran over to help without hesitation. He risked his life saving not only my mother, but also the students of the Islamic school, along with members of our community.”
Multiple vigils and memorials have been held across San Diego, some organized by Islamic centers and others through interfaith efforts.
“My community is mourning. My community is keeping our three heroes in their prayers,” Imam Taha Hassane said.
Two fundraisers have raised millions combined for the three victims and their families.
The goal for Abdullah’s fundraiser had reached more than $2 million to go toward funeral and burial costs, as well as immediate household needs for his family.
Another fundraiser, organized as the Official ICSD Victim & Family Support Fund to “support individuals and families impacted by the tragic shooting incident at the ICSD masjid campus,” has also raised nearly $1 million toward its goal.
Hassane said the community center would remain closed for a second day Tuesday following the attack.
“I was there. I heard what happened,” he said during a Tuesday press conference. “Mansoor called 911 and tried to do something to protect others. Unfortunately, they sacrificed their lives to protect the community.”
