THOMASVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS MEDIA RELEASE

CASE REPORT NUMBER: 2013-003701

Check one: Date/Time: Distributed:

X Original 10/8/2013 X Yes No

Update

Investigation

Wanted

Release Prepared By: Lt. Det. Mike Howard / Distributed by: S. Crumbley

Type of Incident:

Domestic Dispute 10/07/2013

Date and Time of Incident: Location:

831 Leach Avenue, Thomasville, NC

Thomasville Police Officers responded to 813 Leach Avenue, Thomasville, at approximately 7:30 pm in reference to a person set on fire after being doused with gasoline. Angela Byas, 33 years old, suffered severe injuries as a result of being burned. Byas two daughters ages 14 and 15 years old, witnessed the assault but neither child was harmed in the incident. Byas was transported by ambulance to Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center and then transported to Wake Forrest Baptist Medical Center via aircare where she is currently listed in critical but stable condition. Officers took Angela Byas' husband, Portugal Byas, 69 years old, in to custody without incident. He has been charged with attempted murder and 1st degree arson and is being held in the Davidson County Jail without bond. His first court date is set for November 27 in Thomasville. "The investigation reveals the assault culminated after a domestic dispute between Angela and Portugal Byas," said Brad Saintsing. "The victim's daughters ran from the residence seeking help." The Investigation is continuing. The residence suffered minor damage. This situation serves as a reminder that people who find themselves in an abusive relationship can turn to local agencies such as local law enforcement and Family Services of Davidson County for information and assistance, said Lt. Kimberly Sebastian.

Portugal Byas, 69 years old July 8, 1944 813 Leach Avenue

Police Department Contact(s) Name: Name: Captain Darren Smith Phone: Phone: 336-475-4264

Crime Stoppers, at 336-476-8477, pays cash rewards for information that leads to arrests, seizures, or the solutions to serious unsolved crimes. Callers remain anonymous and receive rewards up to $1,000.