Amin Abdullah dies shielding children in mosque attack

SAN DIEGO, California (MNTV) — The Muslim community in San Diego is mourning Amin Abdullah, a security guard who was killed while trying to protect worshippers and children during a deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego.

Police and community leaders say Abdullah’s actions prevented a far greater tragedy.

The attack unfolded Monday at the Islamic Center of San Diego, one of the largest mosques in California. Authorities say two teenage gunmen opened fire outside the mosque and school complex, killing three men before taking their own lives nearby. Investigators are treating the shooting as a possible hate crime.

Among those killed was Abdullah, a longtime security guard and father of eight. He was a convert to Islam. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl called his actions “heroic” and said he “undoubtedly saved lives.”

According to mosque director Imam Taha Hassane, Abdullah used his radio moments before he was shot to warn teachers inside the mosque school to lock classroom doors. Nearly 200 children were inside the building at the time. “By doing this, he saved so many souls,” Hassane said.

Family friend Shaykh Uthman Ibn Farooq said Abdullah had chosen security work because “he wanted to defend the innocent.”

Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire erupted near the mosque shortly before midday prayers. Children were later evacuated in lines by heavily armed police officers. A nine-year-old student told Reuters that he and classmates hid trembling in a classroom closet while shots rang outside.

Community members described Abdullah as a gentle and welcoming figure known to everyone at the mosque.

“He always welcomed everyone with a smile,” former student Sarah Youssef told local media.

As tributes spread online, Muslim organizations and supporters launched fundraising campaigns for Abdullah’s family.

A fundraiser highlighted his role in protecting worshippers and helping secure the mosque during the attack. Reports said donations quickly crossed more than $1.4 million, reflecting an outpouring of support from across the country.

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the attack, saying houses of worship should never become targets of violence. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also denounced Islamophobia and vowed stronger protection for religious institutions.

The Islamic Center of San Diego has since become a place of mourning, prayer, and remembrance.

For many American Muslims, Amin Abdullah is now being remembered not only as a security guard but also as a man who gave his life protecting children and worshippers from hate.