PRAY: U.S. COVID-19 patient seriously assaulted while praying

An 82-year-old man with COVID-19 is dead after suffering serious injuries from being assaulted by his roommate.

The man was praying in his California hospital room. It was the last thing he did. The man died after another patient allegedly beat him using an oxygen tank.

The initial assault took place around 9:45 a.m. on Dec. 17 at the Antelope Valley Hospital in Lancaster, California.

The 37-year-old suspect became upset when the 82-year-old began to pray in their shared hospital room, the BBC reports.

The elderly victim died the next day.

According to the Los Angeles police, the suspect and victim were unknown to each other. Both, however, were being treated in hospital for COVID-19.

"The suspect ... was arrested and charged with murder, a hate crime enhancement and elder abuse," a statement released by LA police reads.

California has recorded more than two million cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Hospitals in the state are reportedly struggling to cope with high case volumes.

Area hospitals are facing staff shortages and the state is appealing for extra medical workers.

The suspect's bail was set at one million dollars and LA police say the investigation is ongoing.

His first court appearance is set for Dec. 28.