North Carolina Man Accused of Pouring Rubbing Alcohol on Girlfriend and Setting Home on Fire During Morning Argument
SYLVA, NC — A North Carolina man is behind bars after police say he poured rubbing alcohol on his girlfriend and set their couch on fire during a violent domestic dispute early Friday morning. Officers say the attack began because the woman refused to “get him a beer” at 7 a.m.
Argument Escalated into Threats and Fire, Police Say
Officers from the Sylva Police Department responded to a home on Chipper Curve Road at 7:18 a.m. after a report of a domestic disturbance. When they arrived, they found Patrick Erron Tyson, 41, and his girlfriend, who both admitted to being involved in an argument that escalated into violence.
According to investigators, the woman told officers that Tyson threatened to set her on fire if she “didn’t get him a beer.” When she refused, he allegedly dumped a bottle of rubbing alcohol on her and then set the couch on fire.
Victim’s Shirt Burned Off as Flames Spread Inside the Home
Police said the flames burned the woman’s shirt off her body, but she managed to escape without direct burn injuries. The Sylva Fire Department responded quickly and extinguished the blaze before it spread further through the house.
The fire caused smoke damage, burned sections of furniture and carpet, and shattered a kitchen stove after Tyson allegedly threw an object at it during the incident.
Suspect Arrested After Firefighters Contain Blaze
Tyson was taken into custody at the scene and booked into the Jackson County Jail. He faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill
- First-degree arson
- Two additional misdemeanor offenses
He is being held on a $750,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 1.
A Disturbing Pattern of Fire-Related Domestic Violence
Authorities noted similarities to prior cases involving household fires during domestic disputes, calling the situation extremely dangerous. A small spark combined with accelerants like rubbing alcohol can engulf a room within minutes, posing life-threatening risks not only to victims but also to nearby homes.
Investigators say the quick response from firefighters prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome.
Community Reminder: Early-Morning Domestic Violence Calls Are Increasing
Local officials say early-morning disturbance calls often involve alcohol or substance use and can escalate rapidly. Police urge residents to take threats seriously and seek help when domestic partners display violent behavior.
Victims may contact local shelters or crisis hotlines for immediate safety assistance.
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