The victims were found about a mile apart along State Highway 249 before deputies arrested a 28-year-old suspect.
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Two men believed to be homeless remained gravely injured after they were attacked minutes apart Friday morning at separate locations along State Highway 249 in northwest Harris County, court records show.
One victim was described in court documents as brain-dead, while the other remained in critical condition. Authorities have not released their names or provided updated medical information.
The first assault occurred outside a Dunkin’ restaurant near the intersection of State Highway 249 and West Road. Emergency crews took the injured man to a hospital after he was found with serious injuries.
Deputies were sent soon afterward to another reported assault about a mile away. A passing driver told investigators that a man was striking a second victim with a metal pipe about 2 feet long, according to court records.
Investigators believe both victims were homeless. Officials have not said whether the men had been staying in the area, knew each other or had any connection to the person accused of attacking them.
Deputies later located Joshua McDaniel, 28, riding a bicycle nearby. Court documents say he admitted being involved in a fight with one victim outside the restaurant. Authorities have not announced a confirmed motive.
The close timing and distance between the attacks led investigators to treat them as related. Records do not explain how the second encounter began or whether either victim had spoken with McDaniel before the violence.
McDaniel was booked into the Harris County Jail on two aggravated assault charges. No information about a plea or defense attorney was immediately available in the reviewed records.
The investigation remained active as the victims received hospital care and the criminal cases moved into court. The charges against McDaniel are allegations and do not establish guilt.
Author note: Last updated July 20, 2026.