The family of one of the teenagers involved in the deadly attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego has spoken publicly for the first time, saying they are devastated by what happened and believe their son was influenced by extremist content online before the tragedy unfolded.

In a statement released through an attorney, the family of Caleb Vazquez, 18, said they are “completely heartbroken and devastated” by the attack and condemned his actions without hesitation.

“We want to begin by acknowledging that nothing we say or do could ever repair the damage his actions has caused,” the family said. “We condemn these hateful and violent actions entirely.”

Authorities say Vazquez and 17-year-old Cain Clark entered the mosque during prayers and opened fire, killing three people before fleeing the scene. Investigators say the two later died from gunshot wounds after leaving the area.

The victims — identified as Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha, and Nadir Awad — were remembered by community members as heroes, with witnesses saying their actions may have prevented even greater loss of life during the rampage.

In the emotional statement, Vazquez’s family said their son was on the autism spectrum and had long struggled internally with identity and mental health.

They said they now believe exposure to extremist propaganda, hateful online rhetoric, and radicalized internet spaces played a major role in his descent toward violence.

“We have come to recognize how dangerous online spaces are that normalize hatred,” the statement read.

Investigators say the two teens allegedly shared extremist material online before the attack, including racist messaging and references to violent ideology.

Authorities are continuing to review digital evidence, writings, and social media activity as part of the investigation into what led up to the shooting.

The family also expressed sorrow directly to the victims’ loved ones and the wider Muslim community in San Diego, saying no apology could ever undo the pain caused.

“As parents, we are grieving in ways we never imagined possible,” they said. “But our pain does not compare to the suffering of the victims and their families.”

In San Diego, hundreds gathered this week to mourn the three men killed during the attack. Community members attended funeral prayers before the victims were laid to rest side by side.

For many, the tragedy has become not only a story of devastating loss — but also a painful warning about the growing influence of violent extremism online and how quickly it can consume vulnerable young people.

Sources:

Daily Mail
California Post
San Diego Union-Tribune
NBC San Diego
Family statement released through attorney Colin Rudolph