Home Depot Hatchet Attack: Man Charged with Aggravated Assault

A disturbing incident occurred at a Home Depot store in Hutto, Texas, on August 14. A 41-year-old man, John Doyle Bauer, allegedly attacked a 79-year-old victim with a hatchet, causing severe injuries to the elderly man's arms and head.

The attack was described as 'unprovoked' and 'random' by police investigators. The suspect fled the scene in a white Toyota but was later apprehended about 3.5 miles north of the store. When questioned by officers, Bauer allegedly asked if the victim was dead and expressed hope that he was.

The victim, Manuel Vera, suffered head lacerations, a skull fracture, and multiple fractures to his arm and fingers. He was taken to Ascension Seton Williamson Hospital for emergency treatment and has since been discharged to continue his recovery at home.

Bauer has been charged with second-degree felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and is being held in the Williamson County Jail on a $750,000 bond. His court date is set for September 3.