North Carolina Man Patrick Tyson Accused of Setting Woman on Fire After She Refused to Get Him a Beer

A North Carolina man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly setting a woman on fire during a violent incident inside a Sylva residence, according to local authorities.

Patrick Tyson, 56, is accused of spraying rubbing alcohol on the woman, the couch she was sitting on, and the surrounding floor before using a lighter to ignite the alcohol—moments after she refused his demand to get him a beer.

Woman’s Shirt Burned Off in Attack

According to a press release from the Sylva Police Department, officers responded to a domestic incident on Chipper Curve Road just after 7 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 21. When they arrived, they were met by the female victim, who reported that Tyson had threatened to set her on fire if she did not retrieve a beer for him.

Police say Tyson then ignited the alcohol-soaked couch with a cigarette lighter, causing flames that spread to the woman’s shirt, burning it off her body. Despite the severity of the situation, the victim did not sustain physical injuries.

Inside the home, officers found smoke damage, burned carpeting, a charred couch, and a shattered stove—damaged after Tyson reportedly threw an item at it during the disturbance.

The Sylva Fire Department responded and quickly extinguished the blaze. Authorities have not yet clarified the relationship between Tyson and the victim.

Multiple Felony Charges Filed

Following his arrest, Tyson was charged with:

• Felony Assault With a Deadly Weapon With Intent to Kill

• Felony First-Degree Arson

• Misdemeanor Assault on a Female

• Misdemeanor Injury to Personal Property

Tyson is being held on a $750,000 secured bond at the Jackson County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in District Court on December 1.