A 45-year-old New Brunswick man has been charged with second-degree murder in relation to the death of Sonia Vivian Timbre in Fredericton earlier this month.

Fredricton Police Force officers found Timbre’s body in a downtown residence on Sept. 7, stated a release.

Police also found Aaron Jesse Rice at the scene and he was taken to hospital, according to a Fredericton Police Force news release.

The 42-year-old woman was manager of Lands and Environmental Stewardship at Acho Dene Koe First Nation at Fort Liard.

On Wednesday, police charged 45-year-old Rice with second-degree murder.

Rice remains in custody pending his next appearance in Fredericton provincial court, set for Oct. 24.

“The Victim Witness Services team has been working closely with the victim’s family throughout the investigation,” the release reads.

“Our thoughts are with Ms. Timbre’s family and friends as they process this tragic loss.”

The First Nation said Timbre had been buried in her home community of Fort Liard on September 20 following a memorial service.

Stated the First Nation: “The chief and council appreciate the compassion and unity shown by all members during this period of mourning, and they encourage everyone to continue offering kindness and understanding as we remember Sonia Timbre’s many contributions.”