- By Shivangi Sharma
- Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A shocking CCTV clip has emerged depicting the last moments of Indian-origin motel owner Rakesh Ehagaban, or Rakesh Patel, before he was shot dead outside his office in Robinson Township, close to Pittsburgh, the United States. The 51-year-old Gujarat native was recorded on security cameras exiting the Pittsburgh Motel on Oct. 3 to investigate a commotion in the parking lot. Patel can be seen walking peacefully to an armed suspect and saying, "Are you alright, bud?"
Seconds later, the suspect pointed his gun and shot from point-blank range into Patel's head. He fell immediately and was declared dead at the scene. The police and a criminal complaint revealed that the gunman was Stanley Eugene West, 37, who had been living at the motel for almost two weeks with a woman and a child.
Chain Of Events Leading To Shooting
Authorities reported the violent outburst started when West shot his female partner in a dispute outside the parking lot of the motel. The woman, riding in a black sedan with the child, was shot through the driver's side window. Though injured, she drove to an adjacent auto service center, where police later found her. She was taken to the hospital in critical condition, and the child was discovered uninjured.
Not knowing the entire situation, Patel had gone out after he heard the noise, only to face the armed suspect. Police and witnesses authenticated that West shot him at point-blank range without hesitation.
Suspect Has Shootout With Police
After the shooting, West tried to make an escape but was pursued by officers. As police caught up with him, West reportedly fired at them, shooting a Pittsburgh detective in the leg. Police returned fire and shot West several times before he could be brought under control. He is under arrest and currently being treated medically.
Allegheny County Superintendent Christopher Kearns told that Patel's actions indicated his notion of duty and responsibility as a manager who desired to protect the safety of his property. "He walked out to help and paid the ultimate price," Kearns stated.
Patel's murder is the third in one month to involve violence against US-based Indian-origin individuals, and it has raised fresh fears in the diaspora community. His friends and acquaintances said that he was a diligent fellow who was liked by the customers and staff at the motel. The probe continues, and West is likely to face charges of homicide and attempted homicide.