A tragic and deeply unsettling scene unfolded in the parking lot of a Columbus Walmart this week when a violent family dispute ended in fatal gunfire. Authorities have confirmed that the altercation, which occurred on Sunday evening, May 25, 2025, involved two members of the same family and resulted in the death of 42-year-old Anhil David Mirabal Hernandez, a resident of Columbus.
The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Manuel Alejandro Mesa Cabrera, is now in police custody, facing charges related to the fatal shooting. The Columbus Police Department responded swiftly to reports of gunshots outside the Walmart Supercenter located on 33rd Avenue. When officers arrived at the scene just before 7:30 p.m., they found Hernandez suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders, Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Family Dispute Turns Fatal
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the fatal incident was the result of a heated argument between Mesa Cabrera and his relative, Mirabal Hernandez. Although the exact cause of the dispute has not been publicly disclosed, police officials have confirmed that it escalated rapidly in the parking lot — drawing alarmed attention from shoppers and store employees.
Witnesses described a disturbing scene in which the two men were seen arguing loudly before Mesa Cabrera pulled a firearm and opened fire on Hernandez at close range. Multiple witnesses immediately dialed 911, and some attempted to assist Hernandez before emergency services arrived.
“It happened so fast. One moment they were yelling, the next we heard gunshots,” said a shopper who was parked just a few spaces away. “Everyone was screaming and running for cover.”
Mesa Cabrera did not flee the scene. He was taken into custody by police without incident and transported to the Platte County Jail, where he remains held pending formal charges. Authorities have stated that he is cooperating with the investigation.
Charges and Investigation
While police have not yet confirmed the exact charges being filed, they have indicated that Mesa Cabrera will likely face second-degree murder or manslaughter, along with potential weapons violations. The Columbus Police Department, in collaboration with the Nebraska State Patrol and Platte County Attorney’s Office, is continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage from the Walmart premises.
A firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered at the scene and is undergoing ballistic testing.
“This is a tragic and senseless loss of life that occurred in a very public space,” said Police Chief William Craig in a statement Monday. “Our thoughts are with the family of Mr. Mirabal Hernandez as they process this unthinkable event. We are working diligently to ensure justice is served.”
A Shocked Community
The fatal shooting has shaken the quiet city of Columbus, known more for its close-knit community than violent crime. Local residents expressed both shock and sorrow that a family conflict could result in such a public and deadly conclusion.
“This hits especially hard because it’s family. You always hear about shootings between strangers or during crimes — but when it’s within a family, it just makes it more tragic,” said Pastor Elena Vargas of a local community church. “We need to come together not only to grieve but to help families deal with the conflicts that lead to this kind of heartbreak.”
A small vigil has since formed in the Walmart parking lot, where community members have placed flowers, candles, and hand-written messages in memory of Anhil David Mirabal Hernandez.
Friends and relatives of the victim describe him as a hardworking, soft-spoken man who was dedicated to his family and known for his generosity. He had lived in Columbus for several years and worked locally in construction and home improvement.
“He was a good man,” said family friend Jorge Mendez. “He didn’t deserve this.”
Looking Ahead
Mesa Cabrera is expected to make his first court appearance later this week. Prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges, especially if the investigation uncovers a history of threats or abuse.
Mental health professionals and community outreach leaders are urging residents to seek help when dealing with family conflicts before they escalate to violence. “This tragedy could have been prevented,” said community counselor Leah Porter. “We want people to know there are resources available before anger turns deadly.”
As Columbus mourns a life lost too soon, the community is left grappling with the lingering question: how does a family dispute erupt into a fatal act of violence in a place meant for everyday errands? The answer may never fully come, but what remains clear is the deep wound left behind — in a family torn apart and a town left searching for healing.
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