San Antonio, Texas – Charles V. Byrd, a 49-year-old man from Texas, has been arrested and charged with felony tampering with evidence after allegedly choking his wife to death and hiding her body in their home, where it remained for over a month before he was caught.
The Discovery of the Crime
The investigation into the death of Angela Byrd, 47, began after a relative became concerned and alerted authorities in the early hours of June 16. Charles Byrd had reportedly made disturbing comments suggesting that he had killed his wife, prompting the family member to call law enforcement.
When deputies arrived at the Byrds’ home on Pleasanton Road, they immediately detected a strong odor of decomposition and soon found Angela Byrd’s body wrapped in plastic, carpet, and blankets, secured with ratchet straps.
The medical examiner is expected to confirm the identity of the body and determine the exact cause and manner of death.
Charles Byrd’s Confession
Charles Byrd told investigators that he had arrived early at home on June 16 to surprise his wife. However, he claimed that upon entering the house, he noticed “cues” suggesting that Angela Byrd was expecting another man.
This assumption allegedly led to a verbal confrontation between the couple, which quickly escalated. Charles Byrd reportedly choked his wife and bit her face multiple times during the altercation.
When asked why he believed his wife was cheating, Byrd allegedly pointed to Angela’s phone as evidence and directed officers to check it.
Living With the Body for a Month
According to Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, Byrd admitted that after the violent altercation, he believed his wife had died. He then spent the next 32 days living with her body in the residence, taking steps to mask the odor of decomposition and trying to explain it away to family members who visited.
Sheriff Javier Salazar said during a news conference that Byrd was very matter-of-fact in describing the violent encounter that he claimed led to his wife’s death.
Background and Arrest
Byrd was employed as a janitor at a local school district in San Antonio, but after his arrest, he was fired from his position. A spokesperson for the school district confirmed that Byrd had no direct contact with students during his employment.
Byrd is currently being held at Bexar County Jail with a $200,000 bond. While he has been charged with tampering with evidence, authorities anticipate that murder charges will be brought against him once the autopsy results are released.
Community Shock
This tragic case has shocked the community, with many grappling with the disturbing details of the crime and the family’s loss. Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Angela Byrd’s death.
