The RCMP say a 22-year-old woman from Centreville was killed as a result of intimate partner violence.
On Saturday at about 3 a.m., police, the Kentville Volunteer Fire Department, and EHS responded to a home that was on fire on Anthony Avenue in Centreville.
Six people managed to escape before first responders arrived.
But during the investigation, police found a woman dead inside and ruled the death and the fire were suspicious.
The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit took over the investigation.
The Medical Examiner’s Office determined the death was a homicide, and police say it was a result of intimate partner violence.
This marks the 7th person murdered due to intimate partner violence since October.
At about noon on Saturday, police found and arrested a 28-year-old man on highway 8 near Lequille. He was taken to the Bridgetown RCMP Detachment and was later transferred to the New Minas RCMP Detachment, and stayed there overnight.
Justin Joseph Benjamin was charged with murder and arson with disregard to human life.
He remains in custody and appeared in court on Monday morning.
The investigation continues.
The RCMP encourages anyone at risk of or experiencing intimate partner violence to reach out. They can call 211 or visit the website and call a provincial toll-free line at 1-855-225-0220.
