San Antonio, Texas – New details have emerged in the case of 49-year-old Charles V. Byrd, who was arrested last week after allegedly admitting to killing his wife, Angela Byrd, and living with her body for over a month. Byrd has been charged with felony tampering with evidence with the intent to impair a human body, in connection with the death of his wife.
The Alleged Murder and Chilling Discovery
According to court documents reviewed by San Antonio ABC affiliate KSAT, Byrd told investigators with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office that he came home early on June 16 to surprise his wife. However, he claimed that upon arriving, he noticed signs that led him to believe his wife was expecting another man. This led to a heated argument that escalated into Byrd choking his wife and biting her face multiple times, police say.
When asked why he believed Angela was cheating, Charles Byrd allegedly pointed authorities to his wife’s phone, which he said was in their bedroom.
The case began when one of Angela Byrd’s relatives expressed concern for her safety after Charles Byrd reportedly made disturbing comments suggesting he may have killed his wife. The relative had not entered the home but allowed deputies to do so. Upon arriving at the home in the 22100 block of Pleasanton Road, deputies quickly smelled the odor of decomposition. Inside, they discovered a body, wrapped in plastic, carpet, and blankets, secured with ratchet straps. Authorities believe the body is Angela Byrd’s, though the medical examiner will confirm the identity and cause of death through an autopsy.
Living with the Body
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar stated that Charles Byrd confessed to a violent physical confrontation with his wife, which he believes led to her death. According to investigators, Byrd lived in the residence for the next 32 days with the corpse of Angela Byrd, attempting to mask the odor and explaining it away to family members. Salazar described Byrd’s demeanor as “very matter-of-fact” when detailing the violent encounter.
Job and Arrest
Charles Byrd had been employed as a janitor at a San Antonio school district. After his arrest, the district confirmed that Byrd was fired from his position. A spokesperson for the district clarified that Byrd did not have direct contact with students while employed there.
Charges and Future Proceedings
Charles Byrd is currently being held at the Bexar County Jail on a $200,000 bond. While Byrd has been charged with tampering with evidence, Bexar County Sheriff Salazar indicated that Byrd will likely face at least a murder charge once the autopsy results are released.
