Dart is one of the first Black police officers promoted to the rank of detective in the Harlem Police Department. He brings a practical and methodical approach to his investigations, working steadily to gather suspects and fingerprint evidence. Faced with a bizarre crime scene, he relies on physical facts and careful interrogations to build a clear picture of the night's events.

A highly observant Harlem physician with a practice neighboring the crime scene. He possesses exceptional knowledge of biology and anatomy, allowing him to notice critical forensic clues that police often overlook. He views his medical practice as a form of detective work against disease and applies this same analytical rigor to solving crimes.

A former street sweeper who recently launched his own private detective business specializing in investigating unfaithful spouses. He visits the fortune teller for professional advice but soon finds himself entangled in a murder case. Despite his practical profession, he holds a firm belief in superstitions, particularly reading omens in the moon.

An unemployed young man who accompanies his friend Bubber to the fortune teller to ask about his financial future. He is highly pessimistic and easily irritated. His direct proximity to the crime scene, coupled with physical evidence found nearby, immediately places him under intense police suspicion.

A Harlem undertaker who runs his funeral parlor on the first floor of the building where the murder occurs. He acts as the landlord for the upstairs tenants. He is highly skilled in preparing bodies for viewing and speaks casually about his ability to alter appearances.

The younger wife of undertaker Samuel Crouch. She actively assists her husband's business operations by collecting rent from his tenants, a duty that frequently brings her into contact with the fortune teller working upstairs.

A devoutly religious woman who volunteers at her local church. Driven to desperation by her husband's severe alcoholism and domestic violence, she decides to seek out supernatural assistance when she feels her prayers have failed.

A local man struggling with drug addiction. He holds an intense grudge against the fortune teller, firmly believing that a magical curse is the direct cause of his brother's severe illness.

A local number-runner who works for a prominent crime boss. He visits the building to collect gambling debts, drawing him into the murder investigation as a suspect.

A hardworking railroader whose long shifts leave him anxious about his marriage. He visits the fortune teller seeking reassurance that his wife remains faithful during his absences.

Doty's brother, commonly known as Spats, who operates a local club. He suffers from a severe case of pulmonary tuberculosis, an illness his brother attributes to supernatural retaliation.

Amarintha's violent and abusive husband. His severe alcohol addiction and cruel behavior push his wife to extreme lengths to protect herself.

A local boss running a numbers game in Harlem. He dislikes those who figure out ways to consistently win against his operation.

The medical examiner called in by the police to formally assess the victim and oversee the physical evidence associated with the corpse.

A patrol officer working under Detective Dart. He assists in locating physical evidence and managing the suspects held in the building.

A fellow church member of Amarintha's who believes the fortune teller saved her son's life following a brutal injury.