Amin Abdullah, the security guard who was killed protecting others

Amin Abdullah arrived at the Islamic Centre of San Diego on Monday morning, led the fajr prayers, before taking his post at the entrance to the largest mosque in San Diego County. By midday, he was murdered. Authorities say the security guard was killed after two armed teenager terrorists opened fire outside the complex, and that his actions in the moments before his death almost certainly prevented a far greater loss of life.

Amin saw the shooter and quickly called in "active shooter" so the teachers can lock down the classrooms. That split second decision to call in on the walkie made all the teachers lock the doors preventing the shooters from getting in the school and into the classes.

Two other people at the centre were also killed outside the mosque.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl confirmed at a press conference Monday that Abdullah played a "pivotal role" in limiting the casualties during the attack. While investigators have not released a detailed account of exactly what occurred in those opening moments, the implication was clear. The gunmen did not reach the school inside, and the children were not harmed. Abdullah was found among the three men killed outside the mosque.

A man who knew Abdullah and spoke to local media in the hours after the attack described him as someone who treated every person who came through those doors with warmth and professionalism. "He was a very nice person, having a smile with everybody," he said. "Every time you come to the centre, he greeted you and welcomed you." He described Abdullah as "very energetic, very strong, very professional," a consistent and dedicated presence at the centre who was known to support staff, worshippers and children alike.

In his last post on Facebook, Amin, a revert, wrote: "What is success? To many people success is financial stability, good reputation, beauty etc.

As for ME! Wallahi, thumma Wallahi, it is returning back to Allah OUR creator with the same pure soul he loaned me at birth.

Having the Mala'ikah of Allahu ta'ala saying "don't fear and don't grieve, but receive the glad tidings of Jannah which you were promised by the Most forgiving and Most Merciful". May Allahu ta'ala grant us Husnal Khatimah, AAAAMEEEEN."

On these sacred days of Dhul Hijjah, may Allah have mercy on him and accept him as a martyr. Ameen