The brutal murder of an aunt of former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii has shocked the Pacific Island community. The victim, Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard, was 78 years old and had a long list of achievements, including being the first person of Samoan ancestry to become a professor at an American college. Her sister, Hawaii state Sen. Mike Gabbard, described her as his best friend while growing up.
The suspect in this tragic case is Samoan playwright Papalii Sia Figiel, 57, who is also well-known in the literary world. She was initially charged with manslaughter, but the charge was later upgraded to murder after police found more evidence in the case. According to local media reports, Figiel and Gabbard were considered friends, and Gabbard had even been a mentor to her.
The incident took place on May 25, when Figiel and Gabbard had an argument at Figiel’s home. It is believed that Figiel used a hammer and a knife to fatally wound Gabbard, who suffered multiple stab wounds. After the incident, Figiel left Gabbard at her home and went to visit a friend. The following morning, she confessed to her friend what had happened and then turned herself in to the police.
Samoan Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo confirmed that Gabbard’s death was a result of her altercation with Figiel. He stated that the two women had an argument before the fatal attack took place. This news has sent shockwaves through the community, as both women were well-respected members of the Pacific Island community.
Mike Gabbard expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of his sister, whom he described as his best friend during his teenage years. He credits her with shaping him into the person he is today and instilling in him a love for reading. He followed in her footsteps and pursued an English major at Sonoma State University before returning to their birthplace, American Samoa, to become a teacher and faculty member at the local college.
Tulsi Gabbard’s Aunt Murdered in Cold Blood: Samoan police have reported that former University of Hawaii professor Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard, who is the aunt of former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, was murdered at the GaluMoana Theater in Samoa.
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Meanwhile, Tulsi Gabbard has not yet released a statement regarding her aunt’s tragic death. The family and community are still reeling from the shock, and it is a difficult time for all involved. The investigation into the murder is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge in the following days.
The brutal murder of Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard has left the Pacific Island community in mourning. Her sister, Hawaii state Sen. Mike Gabbard, described her as his best friend and mentor, while her niece, former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, has yet to release a statement. The suspect, Samoan playwright Papalii Sia Figiel, has been charged with her death and is currently in police custody. This tragedy has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved Caroline, and her memory will be cherished by many.