White replacement theory fueled the deadly San Diego Islamic Center attack, researchers say

WorldPolitics
21 May 2026 • 8:30 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

White replacement theory fueled the deadly San Diego Islamic Center attack, researchers say

  • Two teenagers, Cain Clark (17) and Caleb Vazquez (18), attacked the Islamic Center of San Diego, killing security guard Amin Abdullah and two other men before dying by suicide.
  • The attackers were heavily inspired by the 2019 Christchurch mosque shooter, Brenton Tarrant, referring to themselves as 'Sons of Tarrant' and emulating his methods.
  • They left behind a 74-page manifesto, similar to Tarrant's, which contained far-right ideologies, including the 'white replacement' theory, and expressed hatred towards various groups.
  • Extremism researchers highlight a growing trend of violent extremists online emulating past high-casualty attacks and using manifestos to spread their ideologies, a phenomenon they describe as 'gamifying' violence.
  • The incident underscores the contagion of mass violence and the rising threats against religious communities, contrasting with the security guard's dedication to protecting his community from increasing anti-Muslim sentiment.

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