A bloodied Bible, a homemade crucifix, kosher salt and cloves were among the items investigators found inside a Malden, Massachusetts, Airbnb where 38-year-old Kenia Noel was discovered dead. Her brother, Jean Eddie Noel, 43, is now facing a murder charge after investigators examined the disturbing scene and evidence allegedly linking him to her death.
The investigation began on November 12 when police responded to the short-term rental apartment on Lombard Court following a report of a suicide. Officers entered the property and found Kenia dead inside a bedroom. She had suffered knife wounds to her neck. A kitchen knife was reportedly found in her hand, while a large serrated knife was located on a table behind her. Another knife was also found on the bedroom floor.
But the knives were not the only details that stood out. Investigators reported finding a bloodied Bible and what appeared to be a homemade crucifix inside the bedroom. Kosher salt and cloves were also found along the bedroom threshold. Officers discovered additional salt on the bathroom vanity and the top of the toilet.
Court documents revealed that Jean Eddie Noel had told investigators he believed his sister was possessed by demons or Voodoo spirits. He reportedly described her as having multiple episodes and said he had been trying to help her.
The family had reportedly been dealing with Kenia’s concerns before the fatal incident. According to the documents, she had complained that a friend had recently performed Voodoo on her. She had also spoken about problems involving her throat, prompting plans for her to travel to Haiti with her brother.
Kenia had been staying at the Airbnb since November 6. Another brother had rented the apartment, while Jean told investigators that he was also staying there with his sister. At some point, Jean contacted their other brother, who drove to the property. By the time he arrived, Kenia was dead.
Investigators then began examining evidence throughout the apartment. Blood stains were documented in the kitchen, bathroom, hallway and bedroom. Police also found blood evidence inside Jean’s vehicle and reported wounds to his hands.
Further details indicated that Jean allegedly left the scene to shower and tried to clean up before police arrived. Investigators considered the physical evidence, the reported injuries and the circumstances surrounding the discovery of Kenia’s body as they built their case.
Jean Eddie Noel was arrested and charged with murder. He appeared in Malden District Court on Friday, where a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. He was ordered held without bail and is expected back in court on January 5, 2027.
The case remains under investigation, with prosecutors seeking to establish exactly what happened inside the Lombard Court apartment. Jean has denied the charge through his not guilty plea and remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.