Dallas, September 11, 2025
News Summary
In a shocking incident in Dallas, Chandra Nagamallaiah, a 50-year-old motel manager, was decapitated during an altercation with 37-year-old Yordanis Cobos-Martinez. Witnesses reported that the assault escalated after a dispute over a broken washing machine, leading to a horrific attack involving a machete. Authorities arrested the suspect, who faces capital murder charges and remains in custody under an ICE immigration hold. The investigation continues as police gather more evidence and witness testimonies.
Dallas — A man was decapitated at a downtown motel Wednesday morning, and a suspect has been arrested and charged with capital murder, according to police reports and court records.
What happened
The fatal attack took place around 9:30 a.m.50-year-old Chandra Nagamallaiah. The suspect in custody is identified as 37-year-old Yordanis Cobos-Martinez. Witnesses and video evidence indicate the suspect attacked the victim with a bladed weapon, repeatedly stabbing him and ultimately causing decapitation.
Key details of the incident
- Witnesses reported that the victim yelled for help and ran toward the motel office, where his wife and son were present.
- The victim’s son attempted to intervene using a bat, but the suspect continued the assault.
- After the killing, the suspect was observed kicking the victim’s head into the parking lot and later disposing of it in a dumpster, according to the arrest affidavit.
- Video evidence shows the suspect exiting a motel room and attacking the victim with a machete. Police recovered a machete from the suspect at arrest.
- Items recovered from the suspect also included the victim’s key card and cell phone, as noted by investigative reports.
Arrest, charges and custody status
Dallas police arrested the suspect at a nearby location identified as a second crime scene. At the time of arrest, the suspect was wearing a blood-soaked T-shirt. The suspect has been charged with capital murder and is being held on an ICE immigration hold. Law enforcement reports indicate the suspect confessed to the killing during interrogation. Public records linked to the suspect show a prior criminal history connected to incidents in California, Florida, and Houston.
How the altercation began
According to the arrest affidavit and witness statements summarized by investigators, the confrontation began when the victim told the suspect not to use a broken washing machine. A co-worker said the suspect became upset after the victim communicated through her rather than speaking directly to him. The disagreement escalated quickly into violence.
Police response and ongoing investigation
Officers cordoned off the motel with crime scene tape and conducted an extensive investigation, including serving a search warrant for additional evidence. Authorities recovered physical evidence and video that investigators say document the attack. Police praised the restraint displayed by officers during the apprehension of an armed suspect. Investigators said the Dallas Police Department has not yet confirmed additional technical details about the weapon beyond what was recovered and documented on video. The investigation is ongoing, and police are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
Motel and victim background
Property owners reported that the victim managed the motel for two to three years. Witnesses at the scene described the attack as shocking and horrific. The motel remained a secured crime scene while investigators processed evidence.
Next steps
Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The case will proceed through the criminal justice system under capital murder charges, and immigration authorities have placed a hold on the suspect. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact law enforcement to assist the ongoing inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim?
The victim was identified as 50-year-old Chandra Nagamallaiah, who managed the motel where the attack occurred.
Who is the suspect and what charges does he face?
The suspect is identified as 37-year-old Yordanis Cobos-Martinez. He has been charged with capital murder and is being held on an ICE immigration hold.
When and where did the attack occur?
The attack occurred around 9:30 a.m.
What weapon was used?
Investigators recovered a machete from the suspect and video evidence shows a bladed weapon was used. Police have not released additional technical details about the weapon pending ongoing investigation.
Was anyone else injured?
Witnesses and reports indicate the victim’s wife and son attempted to stop the assault; the son struck the suspect with a bat. No additional serious injuries to others have been confirmed in the public reports.
What should people do if they have information?
Police have asked anyone with information to contact the Dallas Police Department to assist the investigation.
Case summary and key facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Wednesday, around 9:30 a.m. |
| Location | Downtown Suites motel, Samuell Boulevard near I-30, Dallas |
| Victim | Chandra Nagamallaiah, 50 |
| Suspect | Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, 37 |
| Weapon | Machete recovered; video evidence documents use of a bladed weapon |
| Charges | Capital murder; suspect held on ICE immigration hold |
| Evidence recovered | Machete, victim’s key card, victim’s cell phone, video footage |
| Investigation status | Ongoing; search warrant served; police seeking additional information from the public |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NBC DFW
- Wikipedia: Beheading
- Fox 4 News
- Google Search: Dallas motel beheading
- WFAA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- CBS News
- Google News: Dallas motel beheading
- Star-Telegram
- KVUE
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
