Police say 25-year old Melissa Kirchner obtained a domestic violence protection order against John Markus Banks (R) when he threatened her life. Unfortunately, the protection order did not protect Kirchner from Banks' last night.Police say a witness saw John Banks inside Kirchner's apartment and called the victim to warn her of the problem. Kirchner called the police and began checking her apartment for Banks.
Banks attacked Kirchner outside of her apartment by pushing her down and strangling her until she nearly lost consciousness. Two neighbors witnessed the assault and came to the victim's aid by beating Banks until he released Kirchner.
Kirchner and Banks were transported to Carolinas Medical Center where they received medical treatment for their injuries. Police arrested Banks and charged him for Violation of a restraining order 50B (two counts), Breaking and Entering and Attempted Murder by Strangulation.