PORTLAND, Maine — The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled the death of a man whose body was found on Frederic Street off Fore River Parkway last week a homicide.
Police responded to a call about a person in need of medical assistance at about 4:40 p.m. on Jan. 18, Portland police spokesperson Maj. Robert Martin said Thursday in a news release.
The body of Nicholas J. Gardner, 36, was found on Frederick Street near the Fore River Parkway Trail System when officers arrived, the release said. Gardner was pronounced dead at the scene.
The cause of death was not released by police.
His mother told NEWS CENTER Maine over Facebook that he is Passamaquoddy and is from Calais.
She described her son as a "free spirit."
In his obituary, he is known by friends as Little Wolf.
"Nicholas was an amazing person with a big heart whose life ended tragically. He lived his life to the fullest his way and on his terms. Nicholas was an adventuring soul who hiked from the east coast to the west coast and settled back in his favorite places in Maine. He was extremely caring, funny, and loved his family. Nicholas was known for his jokes/pranks, his infectious smile, and his kind compassionate free spirit," the obituary states.
An autopsy was conducted by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, and they ultimately ruled Little Wolf's death a homicide, the release stated. His cause of death has not been released, and an investigation is ongoing.
The mother of Little Wolf also said people are welcome to a celebration of life. It will be at the Pleasant Point Elder Meal Site, 15 Elders Way. The event starts at 11 a.m.
Another celebration of life will be held Monday, January 30, at 11 a.m. at the meal site, according to Mays Funeral Home's obituary information.
Police ask that anyone with information about the case to call them at 207-874-8575. Anonymous tips can also be left by calling the department's Crime Tip line at 207-874-8584 or by texting "PPDME" plus the message to 847411.