A tragic incident unfolded on Friday afternoon when Rakesh Ehagaban-Patel, a 51-year-old Indian-origin motel manager, was fatally shot outside the Pittsburgh Motel in Robinson Township. Ehagaban-Patel, originally from Rayam village near Bardoli in Gujarat’s Surat district, had stepped outside to investigate a disturbance when he encountered Stanley Eugene West, 37, who shot him in the head at point-blank range.
Prior to this, West had allegedly shot a woman in the neck outside the motel. Both the woman and West were hospitalized in critical condition following a police gunfight in which a detective also sustained injuries. Police responded quickly to the incident, and an investigation is underway to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
Heroic actions captured on camera
Surveillance footage captured the moment when Ehagaban-Patel approached West and calmly asked, “Are you alright, bud?” before being shot. Friends and colleagues have described him as a man of integrity and compassion, highlighting his courageous attempt to de-escalate the situation despite the imminent danger. Community members in the Pittsburgh area have expressed shock and grief at the sudden loss of a respected local business owner.
Broader concerns for Indian-origin business owners
This incident marks the second violent attack in recent weeks involving Indian-origin motel managers in the United States. On September 10, Chandra Mouli “Bob” Nagamallaiah, 50, was beheaded at the Downtown Suites motel he managed in Dallas, Texas. Both incidents have raised significant concerns within the Indian-American community about the safety and security of immigrant business owners, particularly those operating small and medium-sized enterprises.
Leaders of local Indian associations and community organizations have called for enhanced law enforcement protection, better reporting of threats, and increased awareness programs to ensure the safety of immigrant entrepreneurs. They have also urged U.S. authorities to investigate these incidents thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Community reaction and support
Ehagaban-Patel’s family in Gujarat and friends across the U.S. have expressed profound sorrow and demanded swift legal action. Local residents have organized vigils and memorial services to honor his courage and contribution to the community. Business owners in the region are also evaluating safety measures for their establishments in light of these recent events.
Authorities have confirmed that they are pursuing all leads, examining surveillance footage, and coordinating with federal law enforcement agencies to apprehend the suspect and understand the motive behind the attacks. The broader Indian-American community continues to rally in support of victims and families affected by such violent crimes.