Domestic assault charges filed after victim found in Bristol

A Smyth County man is charged with assault and battery against a family member or partner after police said he attacked the victim while inside their SUV that was on the highway.

A Bristol city report said a traffic stop was made on Lee Highway and an officer spoke with the victim.

Additional charges of malicious wounding were added to Joseph Ayers, a 21-year-old man from Chilhowie, after a follow-up investigation with the victim and eyewitnesses. Ayers was taken into custody in Grayson County and has been released after posting a $5,000 bond.

(IMAGE: Property of Bristol Virginia Police Department)