Suspicious Dartmouth death ruled a homicide, charges laid

Halifax Regional Police have ruled a suspicious death in Dartmouth that occurred on Friday, June 16 to be a homicide and charges have been laid.

Police identified the victim as 35-year-old NadiaGonzales of Dartmouth.

"We want to extend our thoughts and sympathy to the victim's family,"said Cindy Bayers, a spokespersonfor Halifax Regional Police.

On Fridayat 7:42 p.m., police responded to Hastings Drive for an assault.

When officers got there, they found an injured man outside a residential building. He was taken to hospital with what appeared to be life-threatening injuries. An update on his condition was not available Sunday.

First-degree murder charges

Police also found a woman inside the building and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Five people were taken into custody, but three were released and two people have been charged.

Calvin Maynard Sparks, 23, of Dartmouth has been charged with one count each of first-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and breach of probation.

Samanda Rose Ritch, 19, of Halifax has been charged with one count each of first-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and breach of recognizance.

Halifax Regional Police are still at the scene and are expected to be there throughout the day Sunday.

"The investigation is very much ongoing. We are asking people to continue to come forward with tips directly to police, as well as toCrime Stoppers," said Bayers.

This is the second homicide reported in Dartmouth this monthand the third homicide reported in Dartmouth this year.