Police continue to appeal for information following the murder of 19 year old Nikitta Grender. Specifically, Police are appealing for any of Nikitta’s friends and associates to come forward as they may have vital information.
Nikittas body was discovered following a fire at her flat at 51 Broadmead Park, Newport early Saturday morning (February 5th). Nikitta was heavily pregnant at the time of her death. Her body was discovered in the bedroom of her flat.
It has been confirmed that Nikitta died of a stab wound. Police are continuing to search for a weapon, believed to be a knife, although forensic work is continuing to establish the type of knife.
Gwent Police officers remain at the scene which is cordoned off, are conducting house to house enquiries and forensic officers also remain at the scene. A number of exhibits have been sent for forensic analysis. Officers are also looking at CCTV as part of the investigation. Specially trained officers are supporting her family at this time.
Joint patrols with Neighbourhood Officers and community safety wardens are commencing today, police are also distributing leaflets and are using blue tooth technology to appeal to residents in the vicinity of Broadmead Park.
A major incident team of 50 officers continue to work on the investigation. Detective Superintendent Geoff Ronayne is leading the investigation:
“We have had calls from members of the public but we would like more information. Specifically we would like to hear from anyone who knew Nikitta, who was in her circle of friends and wider associates – male or female – who spent time with her and perhaps had been to her flat at 51 Broadmead Park.
We are now fairly certain of Nikittas whereabouts during the early part of the evening: she went, in her friends car, to McDonalds, they then drove around the Newport and Cwmbran area and she then was back at the flat at approximately 1am on the Saturday morning. We know from a neighbour that the fire alarm went off at 5.30am. We now know that the fire was started after she was stabbed, probably to disguise the attack, so we are interested in anyone who knows of Nikittas whereabouts or any visitors to the flat or any suspicious activity in the area between 1am and 5.30am to come forward and help with the enquiry.
We have specialist officers supporting the family who are understandably distraught at the horrific events which have occurred over the last few days and our thoughts remain with them,”
Superintendent Dave Johnson said: “Our officers are remaining at the scene not only to provide reassurance but also to speak to any members of the public who may have vital information about the investigation or any concerns. We are also patrolling with Newport City Council Community Safety Wardens and the mobile police office will remain in the vicinity,”
A dedicated major incident room has been set up and if anyone has information they should call 01443 865562 to speak to a member of the enquiry team or call 01633 838111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
