In a shocking incident from Dallas, Texas, a 50-year-old Indian-origin motel manager was brutally beheaded in front of his wife and son following a dispute over a washing machine. The victim, identified as Chandra Mouli “Bob” Nagamallaiah, originally from Karnataka, was attacked on Wednesday morning at the Downtown Suites motel where he worked.

According to the Dallas Police Department, Nagamallaiah’s co-worker, Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, 37, became enraged after Nagamallaiah asked someone else to translate his instructions instead of addressing him directly.

Surveillance footage reportedly captured Cobos-Martinez retrieving a machete and attacking the victim.

Nagamallaiah ran toward the motel office, where his wife and 18-year-old son were present, but the suspect pursued him and carried out the assault in front of them despite their desperate attempts to intervene.

Police confirmed that Cobos-Martinez has a prior criminal history, including arrests for auto theft and assault in Houston. He is now in custody without bond and faces charges of capital murder. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.

Known as “Bob” among friends and family, Nagamallaiah was remembered as a devoted husband, caring father, and a kind soul who deeply impacted those around him. Friends described the incident as “an unimaginable tragedy” that has left the community in shock.

A fundraiser has been launched to support Nagamallaiah’s grieving family by covering funeral expenses, living costs, and his son’s education. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday.