ROSEAU, Dominica- A dark cloud passed over the Nature Isle this weekend as the nation recorded its first murder for 2009 Sunday morning (Jan. 18).

The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force is currently investigating the death of Kurt Registe, whose body was discovered hidden in the bushes of upper Calibishie early Sunday.

Though information on the incident have been scant, gruesome photos of the Registe’s death began circulating the Dominican community via the internet as early as Sunday night, and depicted several deep lacerations about the head, face and abdomen areas.

The victim was a resident of Bense and was released on EC $65,000 bail from State Prison just over two weeks earlier on January 2. Reports indicate that Registe had initially been denied bail by High Court after being arrested on drug and gun-related charges.

Police officials have indicated that they have not made any arrests related to the homicide, but continue to investigate the matter.

In 2008 Dominica recorded a total of eight murders for its population of roughly 72,000 persons.