Relatives of missing schoolgirl Octavia Charles will have to wait a little longer to find out the results of tests currently being done by pathologists to identify the charred remains found at the Otaheite Residential Park on Wednesday. Sources said the remains were mostly ashes with some recognisable bones. "We have examined the bones to see if we can actually get some DNA and that will take some time," a source said. "A small portion of flesh remained, but due to its state, it is difficult to determine what part of the anatomy it came from and if any DNA can be obtained."
He added that the body was burnt inside a heap of tyres and those ashes were mixed with the human remains. He says intense heat destroys DNA and there is a 50/50 chance of obtaining any DNA from the bones. In order for the body to be identified, DNA samples have to be taken from the teenager's parent to see if it matches that of the bones. Meanwhile, two men who were detained by police are yet to be charged, as officers were awaiting forensic results. The men ages 20 and 29, from South Oropouche, assisted police in locating the remains which were found at the bottom of a precipice.
Charles, 17, a student of Holy Name Convent, Point Fortin, was reported missing on May 22, after she left home to visit a friend in Fyzabad. Her aunt Natalie Danglade said they last heard from Charles that same day when she called her cousin Shauntelle to confirm that she had reached her destination safely. Danglade said Charles's phone was switched off after that and efforts to contact her were futile.
Inspector Seedarie, of the South Western Division CID, and Sergeant Parriman of Southern Homicide Division are continuing investigations.
