The family of Caleb Vazquez, one of the two suspects in the Islamic Center of San Diego shooting, has stated that the 18-year-old was autistic and had been radicalized by online hate. The attack on Monday, which killed Mansour Kaziha, Nadir Awad, and Amin Abdullah, is being investigated by the FBI as a hate crime. The suspects' bodies were later found in a vehicle near the mosque, with apparent self-inflicted wounds.
Family Statement Released
In a statement released by their attorney Colin Rudolph, Vazquez's family expressed their devastation: 'Over the last several days, our family has been trying to process the horrific actions carried out by our son against the Islamic Center San Diego Community.' They acknowledged that nothing could repair the damage and condemned the violence entirely. The family stated they 'reject hatred, extremism, bigotry, and violence in every form' and emphasized that these actions do not reflect their values.
Evidence of Extremism
Police recovered anti-Islamic writings, a gas canister with a Nazi SS sticker, and weapons inscribed with racist messages, including one reading 'Race War Now.' The family revealed that their son was on the autism spectrum and struggled with his identity, which they believe, combined with exposure to hateful rhetoric online, led to his radicalization. They noted the dangers of online spaces that normalize hatred.
The Vazquez family admitted they had tried to help their son with his 'mental instability' but will forever wonder if more could have been done. They expressed grief for the victims and their families, hoping that his actions do not inspire further hatred. 'They were the actions of an immensely lost, troubled, and misguided soul,' they said.
The three victims were honored at a prayer service at Snapdragon Stadium, attended by hundreds. They have been praised as 'martyred heroes' who died protecting children, and will be buried side by side at La Vista Memorial Park.
