Family, friends of elderly man beheaded in SoCal apartment speak out

INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- A 75-year-old blind man found beheaded in his Inglewood apartment was remembered on Saturday by friends and family as a kind, family man who touched many through his gospel singing.

"He was a kind and generous spirit who was a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Robert lived his life as a sign artist and gospel singer. His voice touched many and his spirit motivated more," his family released in a statement.

Robert Hollis' decapitated body was found Thursday afternoon by his brother. Inglewood police continue to search for a suspect, a motive and for the man's head, which was missing from the gruesome crime scene, according to family members.

Family members said they had no idea who would want to hurt him. Nothing was stolen from his apartment.

"How devastating. He was a really nice guy, older gentleman," neighbor Sahir Champion said. "I couldn't understand why something like this would happen to a guy like him."

A vigil will be held for Hollis at 7 p.m. Monday at Faithful Central Bible Church, 400 W. Florence Ave. in Inglewood.

Anyone with additional information about this incident was asked to contact Inglewood police at (310)412-5246.