A homicide investigation is on-going in Wallaceburg.
As previously released, Chatham-Kent Police Service officials allege that on April 18 at around 6:30 p.m. emergency crews responded to a residence on Book Street where a man was found without vital signs.
Nicholas Laprise, 24-years-old of Dover Township, was pronounced dead at the scene, police say.
A post-mortem was conducted on April 19, 2018 at University Hospital in London.
“As part of the investigation a forensic autopsy was conducted in London,” said Inspector Trevor Crane, of the Chatham-Kent Police Service Major Crime Unit.
“However, the cause of death will not be released to protect the integrity of the investigation.”
Crane said in addition to the autopsy, officers spent the weekend examining the scene and collecting evidence.
A search warrant was executed and officers have completed their forensic examination of the scene, police officials say.
Kourtny Audette, 25 years old, of Book Street in Wallaceburg is charged with first degree murder, police say.
She remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
Her next court date is scheduled for May 2 at 10:30 a.m. by way of video appearance.
“I would like to reassure the community that we have no public safety concerns at this time, as this was an isolated and contained incident,” Crane said.
“This was not a random act of violence, as the man and woman were known to each other. We will take as much time as necessary and use all resources available to ensure that this investigation is completed thoroughly and properly. We will continue to release information as it become available.”
Police officials say detectives from the Major Crime Unit continue their investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Unit at 519-436-6616 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
– Photo credit: Aaron Hall
