A Mattapoisett woman is scheduled to appear before a New Bedford judge today after being arrested in connection with a homicide that occurred early yesterday morning, local officials reported. According to WHDH, the Bristol County District Attorney's office stated that police responded to a 911 call around 3:40 a.m. near Seabra Foods on Rockdale Avenue in New Bedford, where they found a 58-year-old man with a severe head injury. He was pronounced dead shortly before 4 a.m.
The Bristol DA's office later identified the deceased as Stephen Oswald of New Bedford. Nina Busnengo, 31, was taken into custody and charged with assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon. As per a report by WPRI, court documents revealed that Busnengo admitted to "stomping" on Oswald's head after he allegedly took her belongings without permission. The relationship, if any, between the two individuals remains unclear at this juncture.
The local community is rattled by the incident, and there is an active investigation underway led by the District Attorney's office with assistance from various law enforcement agencies — State Police detectives, New Bedford Police, and Homicide Unit prosecutors, as reported by Hoodline. The area outside Seabra Foods was extensively taped off as part of the crime scene, and investigators were seen collecting evidence, while a drone was deployed overhead in an effort to canvass the area.
This homicide investigation adds to the concerns about safety among residents. Officials have not released further details regarding possible motives or additional suspects related to the incident. The Bristol County DA's office described the investigation as active and ongoing, and no further information has been immediately available for public dissemination. As the legal process unfolds, the community looks for answers and justice in the wake of this violent event.
