Hutto Man Recalls Moment Before Brutal Hatchet Attack at Home Depot

Manuel Vera, 78, was returning equipment to Hutto's Home Depot on August 14 when he crossed paths with John Bauer. According to Vera, Bauer looked 'crazed' and 'almost growling', but never spoke before the attack.

Vera remembers turning away after seeing Bauer staring at him, but he does not recall the blows that followed. He was left with a broken arm, a skull fracture, a broken finger, and lacerations.

Doctors reattached tendons, installed two plates in Vera's left arm, and used nine staples, stitches, and two pins to repair his injuries. Police arrested Bauer shortly after the attack, but the arrest affidavit did not include a motive.

The family has set up a GoFundMe page that has raised $7,146 for medical bills, with Karen Vera expressing gratitude that her husband is alive.