5 things to know about the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego
4. Security guard killed in shooting remembered for heroism
One of the victims, the security guard credited with preventing the gunmen from entering the school that is attached to the Islamic Center, was a father of eight children.
"Because of his heroism and his courage, his bravery, and the love for his community and his faith, he saved a lot of lives," Mayte Gutierrez, a former employee of the Islamic Center's school, said of the deceased security guard. Gutierrez told "CBS Mornings" on Tuesday that she knew the security guard well.
On Monday, San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl also praised the security guard, whose actions the police chief said were “pivotal” in preventing more bloodshed.
“At this point, I think it’s fair to say his actions were heroic,” Wahl said. “Undoubtedly, he saved lives today.”
Two other men killed in the attack were identified as Mansour Kaziha and Nader Awad.
Kaziha, a father of five children and grandfather, was known as the caretaker of the mosque and ran a store at the mosque for four decades.
Awad's wife is a teacher at the Islamic school and is being hailed for rushing to the scene to assist before being fatally shot.
Samantha Kamman is a reporter for The Christian Post. She can be reached at: samantha.kamman@christianpost.com. Follow her on Twitter: @Samantha_Kamman
