SYLVA, NC – An early morning domestic dispute in this western North Carolina town turned violent on Friday when police allege a man tried to set his girlfriend on fire after a disagreement over a beer.

Authorities said officers were called to a residence in Sylva at approximately 7:18 a.m. following a report of a domestic altercation. When police arrived, they encountered Patrick Erron Tyson and a woman who both admitted to an argument that had gotten out of hand.

According to investigators, the situation escalated after Tyson, 41, threatened his girlfriend when she declined his request to get him a beer. Police say Tyson responded by dousing the woman with rubbing alcohol and then igniting the couch they were sitting on.

Firefighters from the Sylva Fire Department quickly responded and were able to put out the blaze before it spread further inside the home. Authorities reported the victim’s shirt was burned off during the incident, but she escaped the ordeal without suffering burn injuries.

The fire caused considerable damage within the residence, leaving burn marks on the couch and carpet. Police said other parts of the home sustained smoke damage, and a stove was destroyed after an object, allegedly thrown by Tyson, struck and shattered it.

Following the incident, police took Tyson into custody without further incident. Tyson faces several charges, including assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and arson. He is also charged with two misdemeanors in connection to the case.

Tyson was subsequently booked into the Jackson County Jail, where he remains in custody on a $750,000 bond. Jail records show he is scheduled to appear in court on December 1.

Authorities have not released the name of the victim, citing ongoing investigations and privacy concerns. Officials said social services and victim assistance organizations have been notified to provide support.

Investigators are continuing their inquiry into the events surrounding the fire to determine if any additional charges should be filed. Police have emphasized that anyone experiencing domestic violence should seek help and contact local authorities immediately.