Albert Ayala, 34, a ten-time convicted felon, pleaded guilty today to one count of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court records, Ayala was driving a vehicle on I-4 when his girlfriend, a passenger in the vehicle, was ejected from the car.
The woman was struck by multiple vehicles, causing her death. Ayala continued driving and crashed the vehicle at the base of an I-4 exit.
Ayala then fled the scene on foot, leaving behind a pistol and 11 rounds of ammunition in the vehicle. Ayala’s DNA was located on the firearm and an airbag that had been deployed during the crash.
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At the time, Ayala had ten prior felony convictions and, therefore, is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
Ayala faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. Sentencing has been set for August 21, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.
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