Indian-Origin Motel Owner Shot Dead in US After Asking Gunman ‘Are You Okay?’

Indian-origin motel owner Rakesh Ehagaban, 51, was shot dead in the US on Friday after stepping outside to check on a dispute.

According to reports, Ehagaban heard a commotion and went out to investigate. Before being attacked, he is said to have asked the suspect, “Are you alright, bud?” Moments later, the man raised his gun and shot him in the head. Ehagaban died instantly at the scene.

The shooter was identified as 37-year-old Stanley Eugene West, who had been staying at the motel for nearly two weeks with a woman and a child.

Woman Shot Before Motel Owner’s Killing

Authorities revealed that shortly before Ehagaban’s murder, West allegedly shot a woman—believed to be his companion—in the motel parking lot. She was inside her car with a child when West reportedly fired at her, striking her in the neck.

Despite her injuries, the woman managed to drive to a nearby auto service centre, where police found her and rushed her to the hospital. She remains in critical condition.