A Texas man, Charles Vandoil Byrd, 49, has been arrested and charged with tampering with evidence after the decomposed body of his wife, 44-year-old Angela Byrd, was found on his property. Byrd reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming he had a “mental break” before killing his wife more than a month ago.
Discovery of Angela Byrd’s Body
On Saturday, authorities were called to the Byrds’ home after a relative expressed concerns that Charles Byrd “may have done something” to his wife. When law enforcement arrived, they noticed a strong odor of decomposition coming from the property. Inside, they discovered a decomposed body wrapped in plastic, carpet, and blankets, and secured with ratchet straps. Although the identity of the body has not yet been confirmed by the medical examiner, authorities believe it to be Angela Byrd. The cause and manner of death will be determined following an autopsy.
Charles Byrd’s Admission and Arrest
Charles Byrd was taken into custody on Sunday after being found outside his home with his hands raised. According to a press conference held by Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar, Byrd admitted to police that he had a physical altercation with his wife on June 16, which “led to her death.” Sheriff Salazar further revealed that Byrd had lived with his wife’s body in the home for several weeks, attempting to mask the decomposition smell using household products.
Following his arrest, Charles Byrd spoke to reporters as he was leaving the courthouse on Monday. He was caught on video admitting to the crime, stating, “I had a mental break and I killed my wife. I’m so sorry. I loved my wife.”
Charges and Investigation
At this time, Charles Byrd has been charged with tampering with evidence with intent to impair a human corpse. His bond was set at $200,000. Authorities have confirmed that once the autopsy results are released, Byrd will likely face at least a murder charge.
Byrd had been employed as a janitor at a school district in San Antonio, Texas, but was fired following his arrest. A spokesperson from the school district confirmed that Byrd did not have direct contact with students during his employment.
Community Reaction and Further Investigation
The case has shocked the community, as Charles Byrd’s admission of the crime raises questions about the events leading up to the murder. Authorities continue to investigate the details of the altercation that led to Angela Byrd’s death and are awaiting the autopsy results for more clarity on the cause of death.
Charles Byrd remains in custody at the Bexar County Jail, with his next court appearance expected after the autopsy results are made public.