Family, friends and neighbors say this was a senseless killing. They say Harmon would have gladly handed over anything the thieves wanted. Disabled and 85 years old, Harmon was in no condition to put up a fight.
Percy Harmon worked hard his entire life. He proudly served his country in World War II and later the city of Houston as a public works employee. Over Labor Day weekend, he was killed during an apparent home invasion.
Harmon's niece Jennifer Simmons said, "He was a very peaceful man and there was no reason why. If they wanted to rob him, they could have taken what they wanted but they didn't need to take his life."
Neighbors discovered the 85-year-old, who was disabled and in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. He was found bound, gagged and beaten almost beyond recognition. His home had been ransacked. Police believe the suspects are from the area.
Houston Police Sgt. M. McStravick explained, "The way the murder took place, we believe someone knew Mr. Harmon's routine and probably ambushed him at his house."
The suspects entered Harmon's north Houston home through an open back window. Several items were taken, including his wallet, an icebox and lawnmower. Harmon received monthly Social Security and pension checks. Investigators believe the killers may have known that and that's why they targeted him.
"So we hope that you who knows what happened to Uncle Percy will come forth," Simmons said.
On Monday Harmon's family made an emotional appeal for justice.
"Whatever justice is, we want them to be caught," Simmons said. "They need to be caught because who's going to be their next victim? They killed him and they can probably do it again."
Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $6,000 reward for information that leads to charges or the arrest of any suspects in this case. If you have any information in this case, you're asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. You can also submit tips online or text TIP610 plus your tip to CRIMES (274637). All tipsters remain anonymous.
