By Dayo Ade, M10News US Team | 23 July 2025
A man from Texas has admitted to killing his wife following what he described as a “mental break,” as police confirmed her body was found in an advanced state of decomposition inside their home.
Charles Vandoil Byrd, 49, was taken into custody on Sunday after officers discovered the body of Angela Byrd, 44, wrapped in plastic and carpet at their Bexar County residence.
‘I Loved My Wife’
The suspect spoke briefly to reporters outside a courthouse on Monday after his first appearance, where he reportedly told KSAT:
“I had a mental break… I’m so sorry. I love my wife.”
Byrd is currently charged with tampering with evidence involving a human corpse, but authorities say murder charges are expected following an autopsy.
Body Found Inside Home
Bexar County deputies were alerted to the home on Saturday after a concerned relative contacted police, fearing Byrd had harmed his wife.
A strong odour of decomposition led officers to a body concealed under blankets and secured using ratchet straps. While the body has not yet been formally identified, authorities believe it is that of Angela Byrd.
An autopsy will determine the cause and manner of death.
Suspect Lived With Body for Weeks
According to the arrest affidavit, Byrd allegedly told police he had been living in the home with the body since a physical altercation on 16 June led to her death.
Sheriff Javier Salazar said Byrd had attempted to cover up the smell using household cleaning products.
“He remained inside the residence with the body for several weeks,” Sheriff Salazar told reporters.
A family member also reported smelling decomposition at the property before alerting authorities.
School Janitor’s Job Terminated
Byrd had been employed as a janitor in a school district in the San Antonio area. A spokesperson confirmed he was fired following his arrest and had no direct contact with students during his employment.
He is being held at Bexar County Jail with bail set at $200,000.
Source Crime & Law
