Coworker Fatally Attacks Motel Manager in Dallas

Dallas —

Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, 37, is accused of fatally attacking and beheading Chandra Nagamallaiah, 50, the manager of the Downtown Suites motel in Dallas, on the morning of September 10, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m.capital murder.

What happened

According to investigators, both men worked at the motel and were involved in a dispute over the use of a broken washing machine. A witness reported that the suspect became upset after the victim communicated through a female coworker rather than speaking directly. Surveillance video captured the suspect leaving a motel room, retrieving a machete, and attacking the victim. The victim attempted to flee toward the motel office where his wife and son were present. The suspect pursued and continued the assault outside the office, physically pushing away family members who tried to intervene. After the fatal attack, the suspect is alleged to have placed the severed head in a dumpster and kicked the head into a parking lot. Responding Dallas Fire-Rescue personnel found the suspect near the scene covered in blood and holding the machete. He was taken into custody roughly one block from the motel.

Current criminal process and custody

Cobos-Martinez is being held at the Dallas County Jail without bond on a capital murder charge. An immigration hold has been placed on him; he is a Cuban national present in the United States without legal status. Authorities reported he was previously detained by immigration enforcement earlier this year but was released when Cuban officials declined to accept him because of his criminal history. The suspect has a prior criminal record that includes arrests for auto theft, an indecency-with-a-child charge, and assault.

Evidence and response

Investigators cited surveillance video as key evidence showing the actions that led to the fatal wounds. Law enforcement recovered the weapon and processed the scene. The victim’s family was present during the attack; they attempted to intervene and were reportedly pushed aside by the suspect.

Broader reactions and policy implications

The case has prompted discussion about immigration enforcement and the treatment of noncitizens with criminal histories. National figures referenced the incident as an example to support calls for stricter immigration policies. The placement of an immigration hold and the earlier release by federal immigration authorities have been cited in debates over deportation and repatriation procedures for nationals whose home countries decline to accept them.

Next steps in the investigation

Authorities continue to process evidence and interview witnesses. The district attorney’s office will determine final formal charges and next legal steps as the investigation progresses. No trial date has been set publicly as of the most recent reporting.

Background and context

Homicides involving co-workers and incidents at workplaces are investigated for both motive and premeditation; capital murder charges typically indicate investigators believe the crime meets aggravating factors under state law. Immigration holds may be placed on detainees when federal immigration authorities are notified, and repatriation depends on the cooperation of the suspect’s country of origin. When repatriation is refused, federal officials sometimes release noncitizens when removal is not immediately feasible.

Victim and community impact

The victim, who managed the motel, is survived by family members who were present during the attack. The motel remains a crime scene while investigators finalize evidence collection. The event has drawn local attention and raised safety concerns among motel staff and nearby residents.