No leads in double murder

The bodies were in an advanced state of decomposition when discovered in their home at the corner of Gonzalez Street and SS Erin Road. Yesterday, Doodnath not only extended his personal condolences to the grieving family but also on behalf of the business fraternity.

He described the Bernard women as, “two of the most decent people you can find in Siparia.” As former chairman of the regional corporation, Doodnath said he interacted with the elder Bernard on several occasions. “I am very saddened by their deaths because I would have known them before. I would have had cause to interact with them. It is a very tragic time. We are hoping the police will bring those who have committed such a heinous act to justice.” Speaking in his capacity as chamber president, he added: “We are very concerned about the increase in criminal activity in Siparia and our intentions are to continue to work with them to bring closure to issues like these.” Doodnath told Newsday while Bernard was never a member of the business chamber, she was a business person who many years ago operated a thriving poultry shop in the heart of Siparia.

Yesterday, autopsies done at the Forensic Science Centre, St James revealed that both women died as a result of multiple stab wounds.

Investigators said the mansion which the mother and daughter shared was ransacked leading police to believe among the motives behind the double murder could be robbery. They said other leads are also being pursued. Newsday also learnt that a handyman who was well-known to the women was among one of the first persons to be questioned. However he was not detained.

Residents yesterday described the Bernards as devout Catholics who although they kept to themselves, were very charitable in the community. Kathy Ann, Newsday was told, had returned from Florida a few years ago to take care of her elderly mother. On Tuesday night, the woman’s three children arrived in Trinidad to take care of funeral arrangements