The family is Persian (i.e. Iran) in origin. I was surprised to learn in recent years that Persians in general (outside of the radical mullahs & their followers) are very tolerant of other religions and cultures, and often go out of their way to demonstrate this by adopting many of the cultural traditions of the country where they live.
We had a Persian Muslim family across the street from us when we first moved to our current house. Every Christmas they decorated their house, and they even wrapped a cross in Christmas lights and put it in a prominent place in their front yard. Some of the nicest people on our street at the time, and we were sorry to see them move away.
I learned this also through the various Persians that have come to the English conversation class I teach — of all Muslims, they are by far the most relaxed around Christians.
Obviously (to me, anyway), this fellow had stability issues beyond his religion, but I expect he used his religion to rationalize what he ultimately did to his family.
I too have the impression that Iranians are the most likely to assimilate here. I suppose that has much to do with the masses that came here following the Islamic Revolution in 1979, and family that were chain immigrated subsequently.
I work with an Iranian that celebrated Christmas. He is very tolerant of others and is outspoken(to me) about radical islam. He was born a muslim but is the nicest guy. He wouldn’t hurt a fly. And he’s the best employee we have.
According to the 911 tape, he said, “Help...help...I am shooting people”
That’s extremely sad and doesn’t sound like your typical honor killing to me.