A Sarasota man, aged 34, has entered a plea of not guilty in response to charges related to the fatal shooting of his 6-year-old son, his girlfriend, and the family dog. The incident occurred on May 23 during a visit to his mother’s residence. The accused, Nicholas A. Novickis, is facing charges for the deaths of Allie Novickis, 34, and their son, Phoenix, which took place in a home located in the Artistry neighborhood. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the case, with no clear motive identified yet.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the family, including Nicholas Novickis, Allie Novickis, and Phoenix, had visited his mother’s home on Mondrian Court for a swim. The mother was reportedly asleep when they arrived. She was awakened by the sound of shattering glass and saw Phoenix near the lanai door. Nicholas Novickis then allegedly entered the lanai with a shotgun, loaded it, and shot the child.
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Doug Johnson stated that the family had visited the house for a leisurely swim. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Nicholas Novickis entering the house from the lanai, followed by Allie, who later disappeared from view. Investigators believe he returned with the shotgun. His mother, who was unharmed, called 911 after witnessing him shoot the family’s husky, which later succumbed to its injuries at an animal hospital. Allie Novickis was later found dead from a gunshot wound.
Authorities have stated that there was no apparent argument or disturbance preceding the shootings. Novickis was arrested following the deputies’ response to the home. Court documents reveal that he submitted a written plea of not guilty on Thursday. He is currently facing two counts of second-degree murder and one count of animal cruelty. He is being held without bond as the case progresses through the court system.
Johnson mentioned that investigators are in the process of obtaining search warrants and interviewing acquaintances of the family in an attempt to establish a motive. Novickis has reportedly requested legal representation and is not cooperating with the investigation. The case is still active, and any additional evidence uncovered could influence future court filings.
The tragic incident has left family members and neighbors seeking answers, as what was supposed to be a routine family visit took a violent turn. The next steps in the investigation include reviewing evidence, conducting witness interviews, and proceeding with further court actions in Sarasota County.