India Condemns ‘Tragic, Brutal’ Killing of Indian Motel Worker in US

The Indian government on Friday expressed sorrow and concern over the killing of Chandra Nagamallaiah, an Indian national who was brutally beheaded at his workplace in Dallas, Texas, in front of his family.

The Consulate General of India in Houston confirmed the incident, describing it as “tragic,” and said it is in close touch with Nagamallaiah’s relatives to provide assistance. “The accused is in the custody of the Dallas Police. We are following up on the matter closely,” the mission said in a statement.

Nagamallaiah, a motel manager, was attacked after an argument with co-worker Cobos-Martinez over a faulty washing machine. Police said the dispute escalated when Nagamallaiah asked a third person to translate his instructions instead of addressing Cobos-Martinez directly. Surveillance footage shows Cobos-Martinez leaving the scene, returning with a machete, and fatally attacking him.