Man Admits to Bare-Handed Assault in St. James Killing; Autopsy Confirms Blunt Force Trauma
Homicide detectives are continuing investigations into the killing of 56-year-old Nicole Ovid of Romeo Street, St. James, whose body was discovered on a pavement in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025, following a reported altercation.
An autopsy conducted last week confirmed that Ovid died from multiple blunt force trauma, indicating she was violently assaulted.
According to police reports, around 5:15 a.m., officers attached to the St. James Police Station were recording a report from a woman who said she witnessed a physical altercation between Ovid and a man known to her. While officers were still at the station, 60-year-old Kenneth Charles walked in, identified himself, and told police that an altercation had occurred.
Based on statements from both the witness and Charles, officers accompanied them to the vicinity of Finland Street, St. James, where Ovid’s lifeless body was found lying on the northern side of the pavement. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Charles, of Back Street, Le Platte Village, Maraval, was initially arrested and cautioned in connection with the death. However, following legal advice from Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, he was released from custody pending further investigations.
Police said Charles cooperated fully with investigators, voluntarily surrendered to authorities, and led officers to the location where Ovid’s body was found. During questioning, Charles reportedly stated that he and Ovid were previously in a relationship and claimed that during an argument she attacked him, resulting in a physical confrontation in which he beat her.
The DPP has advised investigators to continue inquiries along a specific line while the suspect remains out of custody.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the authorities or submit an anonymous report.
