Daren Hightower is a powerful and influential man, for good reason. As the head of the Water Merchants, he holds immense economic and political power in the oligarchic Hub. However, this same reason leads to him being a high value target. Decker plans to assassinate Hightower, so that the Underground can seize control of the caravan company. Loxley, on the other hand, considers Hightower to be an excellent target for robbery, but prefers him kept alive. As such, Hightower has chosen the life of a recluse, living with his wife in the Heights, protected by an army of mercenaries.
↑The Vault Dweller: "{1040}{}{Hightower}" "{1140}{BUTCH80}{He heads the Water Merchants. Nasty, greedy bastard is what he is.}" (BUTCH.MSG)
↑Fallout Official Survival Guide p.76: "Daren Hightower: (Minor NPC) The unpleasant head of the Water Merchants. He believes he is the chief power in the Hub."