HOUSTON – A couple was attacked and stabbed in their northwest Harris County garage.
Investigators said a man ambushed the couple in their garage in the 15000 block of Walters and Brimwood as they were unloading groceries at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday.
Officials said the robber stabbed Vann Riley, 70, several times. Riley's wife, Linda, 64, was also stabbed.
Investigators said the robber was after Linda Riley's purse.
"We have not been able to determine if he took anything, but we believe the motive was robbery," said Greg Pinkins with the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
Vann Riley was taken to Ben Taub Hospital in critical condition. Linda Riley's injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
"The doctor say (Vann) is very serious and needs further operations," said Bile Tan, the victims' relative. "(He was cut) about 3 or 4 inches (in the head) and cut on his left hand."
Deputies said the Rileys had been doing some home renovations recently, so they are looking into who may have had access to the home.
The couple had just moved into the house from Washington, D.C. less than six months ago. Tan said the couple wanted to have a peaceful retirement in the neighborhood.
"It's quiet," neighbor Cameron Wendell said about the neighborhood. "You can come ride your bike at night. That's why it's very strange about what's going on."
Linda Riley is too scared to return home.
"At this point, she is very upset and we are upset. I don't know, they will probably move," Tan said.
Timothy Ferrel lives next door to the Rileys on Walters Road and is worried the attacker has not been caught.
"Scary, you know, a little close for comfort. I come home from work at 6 a.m., so it's kind of scary," Ferrel said. "I hope they are alright, and I hope they catch the people that did this."
Deputies said the stabbing happened so quickly, the victims were not able to get a good description of their attacker.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.