Omaha police confirmed that Juan Melgar Ayala, an illegal alien from El Salvador with a prior criminal history, was killed after a violent shootout with officers following the shooting of a 61 year old man.

Police say Melgar Ayala shot the man multiple times in a store parking lot earlier in the day. The victim was rushed to the hospital and remains in critical condition.

Hours later, officers located Melgar Ayala at a QuikTrip convenience store. As police attempted to take him into custody, he opened fire. Officers returned fire and killed the suspect inside the store.

Four officers were injured during the gun battle. One was struck by gunfire. Another was injured by shrapnel. All injuries were described as non life threatening.

Prior Criminal Record

Court records show Melgar Ayala had a documented criminal history in Nebraska. In 2021, he pleaded no contest to two felony burglary charges in Douglas County. He also had multiple traffic related violations, including driving without a valid license and without insurance.

Immigration Status

Omaha police stated that Melgar Ayala was an illegal alien from El Salvador and was not lawfully present in the United States at the time of the shooting. Federal authorities have been notified and are assisting in the investigation.

Investigation Ongoing

Police have not released a motive for the initial shooting. The weapon used has not yet been publicly identified. Surveillance footage from the store and surrounding area is being reviewed.

The investigation remains active.

Written by SHR Media Staff. For more reporting like this, read more here.

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