San Diego Mosque Guard Dies Protecting Worshippers

Why this is here: The Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in San Diego County, now features a visible minaret and dome, marking a growing Muslim presence in the area.

Amin Abdullah, a security guard at the Islamic Center of San Diego in California, died May 18 while confronting two gunmen attempting to enter the mosque. Police Chief Scott Wahl stated Abdullah’s actions likely saved lives, possibly including children. The author knew Abdullah as a former colleague from a dental office, recalling his warm personality despite struggles with the job.

Abdullah always admired those in uniform and often watched police cars pass by. The author, who immigrated to the US from India in 1995, noted increased security at the mosque was a recent change, prompted by rising anti-Muslim rhetoric. He last saw Abdullah at his father’s funeral prayers in December, where they briefly reconnected after roughly 20 years.

Abdullah, born to an African American mother, fully embraced both his American and Muslim identities. The motives of the two young American men who shot him remain unclear, and the full impact of this violence on the community is still unfolding. Efforts to understand and prevent such attacks will continue.