San Diego, California – Authorities have identified Mansour Kaziha and Nader Awad as two of the three men killed in a violent attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego, an incident being investigated as a hate crime. The identifications come after the third victim, Amin Abdullah, a mosque security guard, was recognized for his bravery in confronting the assailants.

The attack occurred on Monday when two gunmen opened fire at the religious site. Mosque officials confirmed the identities of Kaziha and Awad on Tuesday, following initial reports from friends and family about Abdullah's heroic actions. The alleged gunmen were later found deceased from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Mosque officials praised the victims' roles in responding to the attack. Ahmed Shabaik, chairman of the Mosque’s board of directors, stated that Kaziha, a longtime mosque employee involved in its construction since the 1980s, alerted authorities before being killed. Awad, a mosque member who resided nearby, rushed to the facility upon hearing gunshots.

Kaziha, originally from Syria, was described as a "cornerstone" of the mosque, managing its daily operations, gift shop, and preparing meals during Ramadan. He was married with five adult children. Awad, also a husband and father, was a devout member who attended daily prayers and helped redirect people away from the danger.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl indicated that the actions of all three victims likely prevented a greater tragedy, potentially saving the lives of 140 children present at a school located at the same address. Wahl stated that Abdullah engaged the attackers in a gunfight, slowing their advance, while Awad and Kaziha drew the assailants' attention in the parking lot, where they were ultimately apprehended.

"Without distracting the attention, without delaying the actions of these two individuals, without question, there would have been many more fatalities yesterday," Wahl said at a press conference. He emphasized that the victims "did not die in vain."

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing grief and concern over the rising number of hate incidents in the United States. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for increased vigilance and support for Muslim communities nationwide.

Investigators are continuing to gather evidence to understand the full scope of the attack and the motives behind it. The community has begun mourning their losses, with many gathering outside the mosque to lay flowers and offer condolences, highlighting the profound impact of the tragedy on the fabric of the San Diego community.