A career criminal and convicted killer from Mexico is facing new charges after allegedly shooting a man in Texas last weekend.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas has released details about the incident, which unfolded on May 23 in New Caney.
Juan Ayala-Montero, 60, became involved in a dispute with a group of people before entering his residence and emerging carrying an AR-style rifle, authorities say.
Ayala-Montero allegedly discharged the rifle into the ground times before shooting at several individuals, striking one man in the head and torso.
Authorities responded to the scene, where Ayala-Montero reportedly continued to fire the rifle until he was eventually taken into custody.
He has been charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and faces up to 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 if convicted.
Ayala-Montero illegally entered the U.S. in 1983 but was deported in 2006, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
He illegally reentered the U.S. in 2007 and has apparently remained in the country since.
Ayala-Montero has prior convictions for homicide, assault, driving under the influence of liquor, and trespassing, as well as an arrest for aggravated assault with a gun.
“This criminal illegal alien, who had already been deported before, now faces federal charges for possession of a firearm as an illegal alien,” said DHS Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis.
“His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, assault, driving under the influence of liquor, and trespassing. ICE is asking officials in Montgomery County, Texas to not release this dangerous criminal. Because Texas cooperates with ICE, we will work with our partners to ensure that this killer will never again roam our streets.”
