Juan Ayala-Montero, Federal Firearms Charges, Texas 2024

HOUSTON, Texas - A shocking incident of violence unfolded in New Caney over the holiday weekend, leaving one victim with severe injuries and another facing federal charges. Juan Ayala-Montero, a 60-year-old man from Mexico, is accused of firing an AR-style rifle at multiple individuals, sparking a chaotic scene that culminated in his arrest.

According to authorities, the incident began on May 23, when Ayala-Montero allegedly made threats after an argument with a group of individuals. He then proceeded to his house, retrieved an Olympic Arms .223 AR-style rifle with a scope, and began firing at the ground. However, he soon directed his gunfire at the group, shooting multiple times and injuring one victim.

One of the victims allegedly suffered gunshot wounds to his torso and head, prompting authorities to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, they heard gunshots coming from the residence and began rescuing individuals. Additional law enforcement arrived shortly after, taking Ayala-Montero into custody.

Authorities recovered an Olympic Arms .223 AR-style rifle with a scope in Ayala-Montero's bedroom, as well as approximately 30 spent .223 casings at the scene. The charges against Ayala-Montero allege that he is not lawfully present in the United States and had been removed in 2006 with no legal authority to reenter the country. As a result, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

Ayala-Montero faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine if convicted. The investigation was conducted by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, with assistance from the FBI and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anh-Khoa Tran is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at repelling the invasion of illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Ayala-Montero is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/alleged-active-shooter-illegal-alien-kings-colony-confrontation-facing-federal-charges