A look back at Omar Hammami

Mobile, Ala. (WALA) - The evil tragedy that inflicted on our country 10 years ago was an act of Islamic extremism.

In the days that followed, many American Muslims spoke out, disconnecting themselves with these terrorists, and preaching about the peaceful virtues of their religion.

One local college student spoke to FOX10 to promote peace among his religious brothers. He soon fell into a trap, however, and became a terrorist himself.

On September 11, 2001- America was knocked to its knees. As the country collectively got back up, it yearned for revenge. Some Muslim Americans endeavored to repair their religion's reputation, including Daphne native Omar Hammami, who spoke to FOX10 on September 21, 2001.

"I've talked with a few people on campus and they felt there were tensions,” Hammami said.

Hammami emphasized to FOX10 that the Koran teaches peace.

"Islam is a diverse religion that kind of has a lot of misconceptions surrounding it," Hammami said.

Shortly afterward, however, Hammami's view began to change.

Hammami eventually dropped out of school, traveled the world, becoming enamored with Jihad. He soon ended up in Somalia, and became a leader and propagandist for the terrorist group Al-Shabab.

"The only reason we're staying here away from our families away from the cities. Away from, you know, ice, candy bars all these other things - is because we are waiting to meet with the enemy," Hammami said in a recruiting video.

Al-Shabab has launched suicide attacks against African Union troops and civilians. Al-Qaeda has publicly supported the group. After Osama bin Laden's death in May 2011, Hammami released a threatening letter, vowing revenge against the U.S. for his death.

Hammami has changed drastically since that interview 10 years ago, both in his life and in his faith. Federal officials are doing all they can to prevent him from mimicking his idol.

A federal grand jury issued a three-count indictment charging Hammami with supporting terrorism.

If he's caught, he faces 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count.