Chairman calls for report on investigation into the death of Dr. Gabbard

Apia, Samoa – 11 February 2025 – The Chair of the American Samoa House Public Safety Committee, Rep Avagafono Vaimaga Maiava has urged that the territory make an official request to Samoa for an update on the investigation into the death of Dr Caroline Sinavaiana Gabbard.

Avagafono told the House in last weeks session that Gabbard was from American Samoa and the territory should seek information on the status of the investigation into her death.

He said their Committee feels a request to the Samoa authorities should be channeled to the Congresswoman. “This would also convey our concern over the death of one of the mothers of American Samoa,” he said.

Dr Gabbard was found dead in the home of poet and novelist Sia Figiel in May of last year. Figiel has been charged with murder in connection with Dr Gabbard’s death and she is due for trial in March.