Michael Alexander Thomas : Man Charged in Woman’s Murder in Fayetteville

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Arrest Made in Connection with Woman’s Death in Fayetteville Warming Tent

Over the weekend, a tragic incident unfolded in Fayetteville, where a homeless man was arrested in connection with the death of a woman in a warming tent. The suspect, Michael Alexander Thomas, 33, was taken into custody on preliminary charges of second-degree murder/manslaughter and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Details of the Incident

The incident took place at 7 Hills Day Center, located at 1832 S. School Ave., where Fayetteville police were called to assist the Fire Department with an unresponsive female inside a warming tent on the east side of the building. Despite efforts to resuscitate the woman, she could not be revived.

Detectives reviewed security camera footage from the tent, which showed the woman engaged in a verbal argument with Thomas. The situation escalated quickly, with Thomas placing the woman in a rear chokehold, causing her to become motionless.

Arrest and Investigation

Following the incident, Thomas was located and arrested at a campsite just north of marker 60 on Town Branch Trail. A smoking pipe found in his possession tested positive for methamphetamine. During a subsequent interview, Thomas claimed he placed the woman in a chokehold to “citizen’s arrest her,” stating that she stopped moving when he released her.

Thomas admitted to not having a phone to call for help, failing to revive the woman, and not seeking assistance for her. He is currently being held at the Washington County Detention Center with no bond set, awaiting arraignment on March 11 in Washington County Circuit Court.

Conclusion

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help in emergency situations and avoiding conflict escalation. Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.

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