The family of Caleb Vasquez, one of two teenage suspects in the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, has issued a statement expressing profound sorrow for the "pain and devastation" caused by their son's alleged actions. The statement, released through family attorney Colin Rudolph, emphasized that Vasquez's alleged conduct does not reflect the family's values or beliefs.

Three people were killed in the attack on May 18, 2026, before the two suspects, aged 17 and 18, died by apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Police are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime, with a lengthy document containing white nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiments allegedly authored by the suspects circulating online.

The family stated they are "completely heartbroken and devastated" and unequivocally condemn the "hateful and violent actions." They acknowledged that their words cannot repair the damage caused but expressed deeper mourning for the "innocent lives" lost: Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nadir Awad.

Authorities are continuing to examine the online document, which reportedly comprises 75 pages of "hate-filled essays" allegedly written by the suspects. The essays are said to promote white nationalism and express animosity towards immigrants, racial minorities, and women.

Amin Abdullah, a security guard at the Islamic Center, is being hailed as a hero for his actions that potentially prevented further loss of life, as the suspects were reportedly only 15 feet from 140 children at the time of the shooting. Mansour Kaziha, a community elder, was the first to call emergency services, and Nadir Awad rushed from across the street to assist upon hearing the gunfire.

The victims, Abdullah, Kaziha, and Awad, were killed during the attack. Investigators are working to piece together the full scope of the incident and the motivations behind it, with the online writings serving as a significant focal point.

The Vazquez family's statement concluded by extending their deepest sympathies and prayers to the families of the victims during this "unimaginably tragic time," honoring the victims for their "heroic actions."

This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting vigils and calls for increased security and interfaith dialogue. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to understand the full context of the attack and its perpetrators.