SAN FERNANDO, Trinidad and Tobago — The tight-knit medical community in South Trinidad is reeling from shock and sorrow after the discovery of 44-year-old nurse, Marina Bacchus, who was found dead in her Vistabella apartment on Sunday night.
Bacchus, a dedicated nurse at the San Fernando General Hospital, was remembered by colleagues and loved ones as a kindhearted professional whose compassion touched countless lives. Her tragic and mysterious death has left an entire community searching for answers.
Disturbing Discovery in Vistabella
According to police reports, around 8:10 p.m. on Sunday, officers from the Marabella Police Station responded to a call regarding a body found at a two-storey apartment building located at No. 79–81 Pointe-à-Pierre Road, Vistabella.
Upon arrival, investigators met the landlord, who told police he had gone to check on his tenant after being contacted by Bacchus’s relatives. Her family had grown increasingly worried after they were unable to reach her for several days.
When the landlord entered the apartment, he made a horrifying discovery — Marina Bacchus was found lifeless and covered in blood inside her home. Police were immediately alerted, and a crime scene team, including officers from the Homicide Bureau of Investigations (Region III), arrived shortly after.
Scene Processed by Investigators
Investigators say the scene bore clear signs of violence. Detectives carefully cordoned off the area as crime scene technicians gathered forensic evidence, including fingerprints and biological samples.
A district medical officer (DMO) later visited the scene and officially pronounced Bacchus dead. Her body was later removed and taken to the Forensic Science Centre in St. James, where a post-mortem examination is expected to determine the exact cause of death.
Although police have not released specific details about the circumstances, the case is being treated as a suspected homicide pending autopsy results. Officers are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby properties and interviewing neighbors in hopes of identifying any suspicious activity in the days leading up to her death.
A Life of Service Remembered
News of Bacchus’s death has devastated her colleagues at the San Fernando General Hospital, where she had worked for several years. Friends and co-workers described her as a dedicated, compassionate nurse who always went the extra mile for her patients.
“She was quiet, humble, and deeply caring,” one of her fellow nurses said. “Marina had a gentle way about her — she treated every patient like family. This news has broken all of our hearts.”
Her neighbors in Vistabella also expressed shock, saying Bacchus mostly kept to herself but was friendly and kind to everyone around her. “She was a sweet soul, always had a warm smile,” said one resident. “No one can believe something like this happened to her.”
Family in Mourning
Relatives of the deceased nurse are said to be heartbroken and in disbelief, struggling to comprehend the sudden and violent loss of their loved one. Family members, who live in nearby communities, had reportedly last spoken with Bacchus several days before the discovery.
“She was loved by everyone,” one family member said quietly. “We just want justice and the truth about what really happened to her.”
Police Investigation Ongoing
The Southern Division and Homicide Bureau are continuing their investigation, with senior officers confirming that all possibilities are being explored. Detectives have not yet ruled out foul play, and efforts are being made to retrace Bacchus’s last known movements and identify any individuals she may have interacted with prior to her death.
Investigators are urging anyone with information that could assist the case to come forward. Anonymous tips can be shared through the TTPS hotline at 555, Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS (8477), or by contacting the Marabella Police Station directly.
Community in Grief
As news of the tragedy spreads, messages of condolence have flooded social media from friends, patients, and hospital staff. Many have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of someone who dedicated her life to caring for others.
“She saved lives every day,” one post read. “It’s heartbreaking that her own life ended this way. Marina deserved so much more.”
In Loving Memory
The death of Nurse Marina Bacchus is more than a police investigation — it’s the loss of a healer, a colleague, and a beloved member of the community. Her compassion, professionalism, and gentle spirit left an indelible mark on those she served.
As her loved ones await answers, the people of San Fernando are uniting in grief — remembering her not for the tragedy of her passing, but for the kindness and care she showed throughout her life.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.