HOUSTON – Rick Roberts was known by many in Houston as a radio legend, but family members and friends said Roberts died after being beaten up by burglars in his own home.
Susie Stillwell said she can't shake the images of the violent crime at her neighbor's home on Maggie Street.
Stillwell said she lived next door to retired radio legend Rick Roberts and cared for him as he grew older.
On one of her daily visits, March 3rd, Stillwell said she discovered Roberts beaten up and unresponsive, and his house was ransacked.
"He was in such shock he wouldn't even look at you," said Stillwell. "The whole thing was just so senseless."
Stillwell believes burglars broke in and committed the violent crime.
Roberts' wife said that weeks after the beating, on Thursday, Roberts died from his injuries at 71.
Roberts, a native Houstonian, was well known at the city's radio stations dating back to the 1960's at KYOK-AM. He later worked for Texas Southern University's radio station KTSU-FM before retiring.
Charles Hudson, KTSU radio's current operations managers said Roberts was an amazing mentor to him and was an icon who will be greatly missed.
"If Rick Roberts had not been in my life I honestly don't know if I'd be doing what I'm doing or being in management or anything else," said Hudson.
Roberts' wife said she is planning a memorial service for him on March 30.
Local 2 contacted Houston police to find out whether they are investigating the alleged crime, but we have not received a response from them yet.