Woman found burned alive in Austin with lighter and butcher knife nearby
10/11/2023 1:40 pm PDT
AUSTIN, Texas (TCD) -- A homicide investigation is underway after officials found the body of a woman who they believe was burned alive.
According to a news release from the Austin Police Department, on Friday, Sept. 29, at around 5:08 a.m., the Austin Fire Department responded to the 6300 block of Mesa Drive in reference to a fire, where they found 33-year-old Melissa Davis deceased with apparent signs of body trauma.
A search warrant obtained by KXAN-TV alleges the fire spanned a 10-foot area, and firefighters discovered Davis’ body consumed by flames. Officers reportedly detected an odor of accelerant near the body, which was in a small grassy area adjacent to a fence.
KXAN reports that a detective uncovered a new lighter on the ground, and a K-9 detected the scent of gasoline or diesel. The K-9 also found a butcher knife near the site of the accelerant odor.
According to the warrant as cited by KXAN, officials suspect that "the knife was placed with the decedent in an attempt to destroy the evidence with the fire."
During an autopsy, medical examiners uncovered evidence indicating that Davis was possibly burned alive.
According to one of Davis’ family members who spoke with police, Davis allegedly planned to have her phone repaired at the Apple Store, and they last saw her the day before the fire.
Detectives noted that Davis’ phone was not found at the fire scene, but they believe she had it with her before her death, KXAN reports. Police believe Davis’ cellphone data will assist in identifying a suspect.
On Oct. 6, police posted a news release stating that detectives are searching for a blue 2016 Toyota 4Runner in connection with the case, but officials didn’t release any further details. The investigation is ongoing.
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