The 2025 Nova Scotia Homicide Victim List is available here
On the morning of January 11, 2025, at approximately 3 a.m., Kings District RCMP, Kentville Volunteer Fire Department, and Emergency Health Services (EHS) responded to a structure fire on Anthony Avenue in Centreville, Nova Scotia. First responders arrived to find a home engulfed in flames, and fire crews quickly worked to bring the blaze under control.
As fire crews extinguished the fire, investigators made a chilling discovery—a deceased woman in her 20’s inside the residence. Based on preliminary evidence and the circumstances surrounding the incident, investigators are treating the death and fire as suspicious.
RCMP Major Crime Unit Leads Ongoing Investigation
The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit has taken the lead on this investigation, with significant support from various RCMP units and other agencies, including:
- Kings District RCMP
- Annapolis District RCMP
- RCMP Police Dog Services
- RCMP Forensic Identification Services
- The Office of the Fire Marshal
- Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service
Update: On January 11, at approximately 12 p.m., at the request of Southwest Nova RCMP MCU, Annapolis District RCMP located and arrested a 28-year-old man on Hwy. 8 near Lequille. The following day police charged Justin Joseph Benjamin, of Centreville, with Murder and Arson with Disregard to Human Life.
Police said the woman’s death was the result of intimate partner violence.
RCMP officials are calling on the public for any information that could aid in the investigation. If you have any relevant details or tips, you are urged to contact Kings District RCMP at 902-679-5555.