An argument inside a Memphis car spiraled into an alleged choking and biting attack Monday, leaving a woman with a serious cheek wound and her nine-year-old son scrambling to get help. Police say the boy opened a door while the attacker was still inside, creating a chance for his mother to get out. The suspect now faces attempted first-degree murder, kidnapping, domestic assault and theft charges.
According to a report by WREG, 27-year-old Khy'ric Mason was with his ex-girlfriend and her son when he became upset after she received a phone call and would not tell him who was calling. Police said the argument intensified as Mason pulled her toward the back seat, locked the doors and wrapped both hands around her neck. The woman sounded the horn for help as the confrontation continued.
Police Say Attack Escalated Inside Vehicle
Police said Mason twisted and pulled the woman’s neck, then bit into her left cheek, tearing away tissue and leaving a serious injury. She also suffered abrasions and bruising around her chest and neck, while investigators said she bit Mason’s finger during the struggle. When Mason told the boy to get out, the child opened the passenger-side door and tried to help his mother escape.
Officers later located Mason and his ex-girlfriend in the 2000 block of Shenandoah Drive, police said. Mason was also accused of driving away in the woman’s vehicle, adding a theft allegation to a case already centered on an alleged domestic attack.
Attempted Murder And Kidnapping Charges Filed
Mason was charged with attempted first-degree murder, kidnapping, domestic assault and theft of property valued between $2,500 and $10,000, as reported by WREG News. He was arrested Monday and scheduled to appear in court Wednesday.
The charges are allegations, not convictions, and the case will proceed through the Shelby County court system. The initial account did not indicate whether Mason had entered a plea or whether an attorney had spoken publicly on his behalf.
Memphis Survivors Can Reach Domestic Violence Support
Tennessee’s statewide domestic violence hotline is available 24 hours a day at 800-356-6767, according to the state’s victim-services list. Anyone facing immediate danger should call 911.
