Within seconds, Chad Smith said the suspect went from being friendly to violent. SAPD is now investigating the assault.

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio police are investigating a random attack caught on camera at a northwest-side business Friday.

The incident happened at Taosc Tribe, a crystal and metaphysical shop off Babcock Road near Lockhill Road. Owners Chad Smith and his wife, Linda Lewis, said Smith was working when the suspect walked in.

“The individual has been in the shop a couple of different times before, never gave us an issue,” Smith said.

Smith explained there were other customers in the store, but after they left, the man began asking questions.

“He was standing about where you are and goes, ‘so do you work here? Are you an employee?’ And like I always normally answer, ‘my wife and I built this together,’” Smith said.

He said the man’s demeanor instantly shifted.

“It went from a talkative person to very aggressive within seconds,” Smith recalled.

The suspect then started walking toward him.

“He’s like, ‘you’re not all that, I think I can take you.’ Keep in mind, I’m almost 60 years old and he’s probably 6-foot, 200-and-something pounds. So I stood up because I was sitting,” Smith said.

Smith said he tried to de-escalate, but the suspect allegedly began attacking him. He fought back and managed to open the shop door.

“I knew that I had to get him out of my wife’s shop because this is her oasis, this is her sanctuary, and I built it for her,” Smith said.

Once outside, the man ran off— but Smith said he returned hours later after the store had closed.

Now, Smith said he is not only worried about the safety of others but also about the suspect’s wellbeing.

“I truly, honestly hope either he turns himself in or they find him, because he really does need help. He needs help,” Smith said.

The couple said the ordeal has also reminded them of the good in their community. Since the attack, they said, people have offered to stand guard at the business while it’s open.

Anyone who recognizes the suspect is urged to call San Antonio police.