A security guard hailed as a hero tragically lost his life while thwarting a violent attack at a San Diego mosque. The guard, along with two others, fell victim during the incident at The Islamic Center of San Diego on May 18.
The two alleged teenage gunmen, identified as Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18, were discovered dead in a vehicle with self-inflicted injuries, as per authorities.
Authorities credit the guard with playing a crucial role in preventing further harm during the attack, with San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl lauding his actions as heroic. The guard’s identity and those of the other victims have not been disclosed yet.
The incident is currently under investigation as a hate crime. Images from the scene depict a significant police presence and families fleeing the area.
According to Mr. Wahl, officers had interacted with one of the teenagers’ mothers earlier in the day. She had reported her son missing along with weapons and her vehicle, also uncovering a note containing hateful language.
While the note’s contents have not been revealed, there was no specific threat aimed at the Islamic Center of San Diego. The center, housing the largest mosque in San Diego County, includes the Al Rashid School offering educational programs in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and the Quran for students aged five and above.
Upon receiving reports of an active shooter, police swiftly responded within four minutes. Gunshots were heard nearby, where a landscaper was shot at but unharmed. The gunmen were later found deceased in a vehicle on a nearby road.
Imam Taha Hassane, the mosque’s director, condemned the attack as a heinous act against a place of worship, emphasizing the need to safeguard all places of worship within the city.
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