A 50-year-old Indian-origin motel manager was brutally killed in Dallas, Texas, after a dispute with a co-worker over a broken washing machine, according to police.
The victim, Chandra Mouli “Bob” Nagamallaiah, originally from Karnataka, was attacked on Wednesday morning at the Downtown Suites motel, where he worked and lived with his family. Dallas Police said the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, has been arrested and charged with capital murder.
Investigators said the confrontation began when Nagamallaiah asked another person to translate his instructions instead of addressing Cobos-Martinez directly. This reportedly enraged the suspect, who was seen on surveillance cameras retrieving a machete before attacking him.
Nagamallaiah tried to flee toward the motel office where his wife and 18-year-old son were present. The suspect, however, pursued him and assaulted desperate efforts from his family to stop the attack.
Police confirmed that Cobos-Martinez has a criminal history in Houston, including arrests for auto theft and assault. He is currently being held without bond. If convicted of capital murder, he faces either life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
Known affectionately as Bob, Nagamallaiah was remembered by family, friends, and members of the Indian community as a devoted husband, loving father, and kind person. “This unimaginable tragedy was not only sudden but deeply traumatic,” friends said in a statement.
“Bob’s life was taken in a brutal attack that occurred in front of his wife and son, who bravely tried to protect him. The shocking nature of this event has shaken our community,” they added.
The tragedy has drawn an outpouring of support from the local Indian community and well-wishers. A fundraiser has been launched to help cover funeral expenses, provide immediate support for the family, and ensure his son can continue his college education.
Funeral services for Nagamallaiah are scheduled to take place on Saturday, where family, friends, and community members are expected to gather and honour his memory.
(With PTI inputs)
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