New Haven Man Charged with Disposing Woman's Body at Edgewood Park

New Haven police have arrested a 33-year-old city resident on charges of disposing of a woman’s body at Edgewood Park last year, according to authorities.

Kyle Wilson of New Haven was taken into custody Wednesday and charged with disposal of bodies in connection with the death of Jasmine Wilkes, whose body was discovered by a dog walker near the Coogan Pavilion on the morning of May 30, 2025, police said.

According to investigators, Wilson moved Wilkes’ body from a motel to the popular city park. Police determined that Wilkes died at the motel before Wilson and several others transported her remains to Edgewood Park.

The Chief Medical Examiner’s Office was unable to determine Wilkes’ cause and manner of death, but noted that she showed symptoms of intoxication from the combined effects of fentanyl, cocaine and diphenhydramine, according to police.

The investigation led detectives to identify the vehicle used to transport Wilkes’ body to the park. Police were able to link the vehicle to a resident of a motel, which helped build the case against Wilson.

Wilson appeared in court following his arrest, where a judge set his bond at $250,000, according to police records.

Edgewood Park, located in the Westville neighborhood of New Haven, spans 121 acres and serves as a popular destination for residents seeking outdoor recreation. The park features walking trails, sports facilities, and the historic Coogan Pavilion, making it a frequently visited location where the discovery was made by a passerby walking their dog.

The case highlights ongoing challenges with drug-related deaths in New Haven, where fentanyl has been identified as a significant factor in overdose fatalities. The combination of substances found in Wilkes’ system reflects broader patterns seen in fatal overdoses throughout Connecticut.

New Haven police have not released additional details about the other individuals who allegedly assisted Wilson in moving the body, or whether additional arrests are expected in the case. The investigation appears to have involved extensive detective work to trace the vehicle and connect it to the motel where Wilkes initially died.

The disposal of bodies charge carries serious legal consequences under Connecticut law, reflecting the severity with which the state treats interference with human remains and obstruction of death investigations.

Police are continuing to seek information from the public about the incident. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to contact New Haven police detectives at 203-946-6304. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can use the New Haven Police Department’s anonymous tip line at 866-888-8477.

The case represents a significant development in what began as the discovery of human remains in one of New Haven’s most visited public spaces. The arrest comes after months of investigation work by detectives to piece together the circumstances surrounding Wilkes’ death and the subsequent disposal of her body.

Wilson remains in custody on the $250,000 bond as the case moves forward through the court system. The investigation into the full circumstances of Wilkes’ death and the involvement of other individuals continues, according to police.