Fitness influencer Miguel Angel Aguilar passes away months after being shot

Fitness influencer and Souther California gym owner Miguel Angel Aguilar has passed away at 43, three months after he was shot during a robbery. On September 13, reports came out about an attempted robbery that left Aguilar critically injured.

Three months after the incident, Miguel Angel Aguilar's fitness brand revealed his death via their Instagram page. On Saturday, December 21, Self Made Training Facility wrote on the platform:

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our founder and CEO, Miguel Angel Aguilar. After a courageous three-month battle following the tragic incident that took place on September 13th, 2024, Miguel peacefully passed away on December 21st, 2024 surrounded by his loved ones."

Per ABC 7 on September 15, the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a robbery around Thurston Circle on September 13, Saturday, afternoon.

LAPD Officer Terzes told KTLA, per FOX 5, that there were four men who approached the fitness influencer, one of whom had a handgun and shot Miguel Angel Aguilar several times.

CBS also mentioned in their September 15 report about an update shared on Aguilar's Instagram page, saying that he's fighting for his life "surrounded by the love and support of his family" and friends.

The outlet also reported that Aguilar, who owns Self Made Training, remained in critical condition.

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Self Made Training paid tribute to Miguel Angel Aguilar following the announcement of his death

Following the announcement of his death, Miguel Angel Aguilar's fitness brand, Self Made Training Facility, paid tribute to their founder and CEO, whom they consider "more than just a leader."

In the same December 21 Instagram post confirming his passing, they remembered him and his passion and dedication to the fitness industry, saying:

"He [Aguilar] was a visionary, an inspiration, a mentor, a father, a husband, family, and a dear friend to many. His unwavering dedication to Self Made Training Facility, his passion for the fitness industry and entrepreneurial spirit have left an enduring legacy."

The statement also mentioned how Miguel Angel Aguilar "revolutionized personal training" and inspired plenty of people to pursue their fitness and entrepreneurial goals.

It also recalled how he made Self Made Training successful with his "strategic mind and innovative spirit." The statement further reads:

"As we mourn the loss of our dear friend and leader, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the positive impact he had on so many. Miguel's spirit will live on through Self Made Training Facility."

Aguilar's friends and followers also shared their condolences under the Instagram post.

As for the suspect in the robbery, a December 22 LA Times article noted that three of the four suspects, Jason Melaka, Daymonee Johnson, and Mankilam Taylor, all reportedly 19, were arrested in Northern California on October 10.

The fourth suspect in connection to the shooting and attempted robbery, Mario Melaka, was allegedly critically wounded from the confrontation and died from his injuries according to LAPD, per LA Times.

All three suspects are currently behind bars without bail and are facing multiple felony charges, including murder, attempted murder, attempted robbery, and assault.

They all entered not guilty pleas on November 14, per FOX LA on December 22, and are die back in court on January 7, 2025.