Date: September 19, 2026
Source: CNN
Topic: San Diego Mosque Shooting, Criminal Charges, Investigation
A 17-year-old North Carolina girl, Sarah Santiago, has been indicted on three counts of first-degree murder and one count of conspiracy in connection with the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Prosecutors allege she helped the attackers livestream the assault and distribute material connected to the attack, even though she was in North Carolina at the time.
The shooting occurred on May 18, 2026, when two teenage gunmen attacked the Islamic Center of San Diego. Three men — security guard Amin Abdullah and worshippers Nadir Awad and Mansour Kaziha — were killed. The two alleged gunmen, 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez, later died by suicide, according to authorities.
According to the indictment, Santiago allegedly communicated with the shooters before the attack and agreed to record and distribute the livestream. Prosecutors also allege that she helped publish writings attributed to the attackers and sent Vazquez a Sonnenrad patch that he allegedly wore during the shooting.
Prosecutors argue that North Carolina law allows someone to face murder charges even if they did not personally carry out the physical acts of the crime when they allegedly aided and abetted the offense. The FBI has also said the investigation is examining connections between people who allegedly helped facilitate the attack from outside California.
The attack took place while about 140 children were at the Islamic Center’s school. Authorities said the gunmen had also discussed or planned possible attacks against a Jewish temple and a predominantly Black high school, although those attacks did not occur.
Santiago’s attorney, Alan Doorasamy, has said his client is innocent of all charges and noted that the defense had not yet received the evidence in the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and the indictment represents allegations that must be proven in court.
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Date: September 19, 2026
Source: CNN
Topic: San Diego Mosque Shooting, Criminal Charges, Investigation
