Probe launched as Portmore woman found dead, burnt

The St Catherine South police have launched an investigation into the death of a Portmore woman.

The deceased has been identified as Karen Nugent, a 36-year-old employee of Sagicor Insurance Company.

Nugent, who resided on Charles Drive in Bridgeport, was found burnt to death inside her house.

Reports from the police are that Nugent was at home about 3:00 a.m. when smoke was seen coming from a window of her house.

A neighbour made an initial check, and Nugent’s body was spotted on fire on her bed.

“Di man then called out and the police and fire brigade responded and the locks were cut and the house was entered,” a resident told The Gleaner.

Burn wounds were observed on the upper section of her body.

“All the knobs on the gas stove were on when it was checked. The fire department is conducting further investigation into the matter,” a policeman, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to comment on the investigation, said.

Residents who spoke with The Gleaner described Nugent as being a good neighbour.

“Most of us knew her as Cutie. She was living alone, as her parents died, leaving her there,” said a resident, also declining to be identified.

It is unclear whether foul play led to Nugent’s death.