Dallas, Texas | September 12, 2025 – A shocking crime has shaken the Indian-American community. A 50-year-old Indian-origin motel manager from Karnataka was brutally beheaded in front of his wife and son after a workplace dispute turned violent in Dallas.
Who Was the Victim?
Police identified the victim as Chandra Mouli “Bob” Nagamallaiah, originally from Karnataka. He managed the Downtown Suites motel in Dallas. Friends say he worked hard, cared deeply for his family, and lived in the US with his wife and teenage son.
How the Attack Happened
The dispute started when Nagamallaiah asked co-worker Yordanis Cobos-Martinez (37) not to use a broken washing machine. When another employee translated the message instead of him saying it directly, Cobos-Martinez allegedly lost his temper.
Later, Cobos-Martinez returned with a machete and attacked Nagamallaiah. CCTV footage shows him stabbing the victim multiple times and chasing him into the office. Nagamallaiah’s wife and son tried to stop the assault but failed. The suspect then beheaded him and kicked his head into the parking lot, investigators said.
Who Is the Accused?
Police arrested Cobos-Martinez at the scene and charged him with capital murder. They confirmed he has a history of violent crimes, including assault and theft. Immigration officials also placed a hold on him because he lives in the US without legal status.
Shock in the Community
The Indian Consulate in Houston offered condolences and promised help to the family. Community members launched a fundraiser that has already raised nearly $200,000 for funeral costs and the son’s education.
What’s Next
Cobos-Martinez remains in jail. If the court convicts him of capital murder, he could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty under Texas law. The family will hold Nagamallaiah’s funeral in Dallas this weekend.
FAQs on the Dallas Motel Beheading Case
1. Who was the Indian-origin man killed in Dallas?
The victim was Chandra Mouli “Bob” Nagamallaiah, a 50-year-old motel manager originally from Karnataka, India. He lived in Dallas with his wife and teenage son.
2. How did the incident happen?
The attack began after a dispute over a broken washing machine at the motel. Following an argument, the accused returned with a machete and fatally attacked Nagamallaiah, eventually beheading him.
3. Who is the accused in the case?
The accused has been identified as Yordanis Cobos-Martinez (37). He has been arrested and charged with capital murder.
4. What is capital murder in Texas?
In Texas, capital murder is the most serious homicide charge. If convicted, the punishment can be life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
5. Was the family present during the attack?
Yes. The victim’s wife and 18-year-old son witnessed the attack and tried to intervene but could not stop the suspect.
6. What support is being provided to the family?
The Indian Consulate in Houston is assisting the family. A fundraiser has also raised nearly $200,000 for funeral costs and the son’s education.
7. What happens next in the case?
Cobos-Martinez is in custody and will face trial for capital murder. Funeral services for Nagamallaiah are scheduled in Dallas this weekend.
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