Cops expect breakthrough when lab tests completed

After almost four months the murders of the two Smythfield, New Amsterdam women have remained unsolved but police in Berbice say they hope to make some headway shortly.

Nekecia Rouse

Police sources told Stabroek News that tests are currently being carried out on a car that had been taken into custody following the incident. They also said that certain aspects of blood sample testing have been completed.

Investigators had collected items with suspected blood stains as well as samples from bloodied footprints at the scene. These were forwarded to their counterparts in the city to conduct laboratory tests. On completion, legal advice will be sought on the way forward.

On February 15, Nekecia Rouse, 25, and her sister-in-law, 18-year-old Alexis ‘Keisha’ George of Smythfield, New Amsterdam were brutally murdered. Their bloodied bodies were discovered between 6.30 am and 7 am.

Both bodies had wounds to the neck. Rouse’s body also bore stabs to the left ear and right shoulder.
George’s body was discovered first in a crouched position under a tree, braced on an old stove in a neighbour’s yard obliquely opposite the house where Rouse was found.

From all appearances the attack occurred in the house but George somehow managed to escape despite her injuries. Rouse was found lying in a pool of blood in the kitchen.
The women’s two young children were found in the house when the discoveries were made.
Crime Chief Seelall Persaud had told Stabroek News when contacted, that nothing had been sent overseas for testing but several items were to be tested here.

He could not say at the time if international assistance would have been sought to aid in the local investigation.
Meanwhile, a senior police source in Berbice said while investigators are awaiting the results, they are working on several theories. The officer said all leads are being followed and the investigation will continue until the police are satisfied.
Following the gruesome discovery, five men were held among them Tyrone

Alexis ‘Keisha’ George

Talbot, an early-retired member of the US army, who had been involved in a relationship with Rouse.
Three of the suspects were later released while the High Court granted a police request for the extension of the detention of Talbot and another suspect. However, they were subsequently released as well.