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Papalii Sia Figiel, a distinguished Samoan author and playwright, faces charges of murdering Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard, the aunt of former Hawaii Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.

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Last week the body of Sinaviana-Gabbard, 78, a retired University of Hawaii professor was discovered at Figiel’s residence in the village of Vaivase-Uta. 

Figiel’s property is also the site of GaluMoana Theater, the local theater. 

According to local media reports Figiel, 57, was a close colleague of the woman she is accused of murdering. 

Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard was well known for her contributions to literature, education, and environmental activism. 

 As the first Samoan to attain full professorship in the United States, she had a big influence on Pacific literature and academia.

Figiel is an award-winning poet, playwright and novelist. Her work is published in New Zealand and distributed throughout the South Pacific region.

Tulsi Gabbard Connection

Sinaviana-Gabbard’s niece, Tulsi Gabbard served four terms as a Democrat in Hawaii’s second district. She was the first Samoa-American to become a voting member of Congress.

She was a presidential candidate in 2020 and left the Democratic Party in 2022 to become an Independent.

 Sinaviana-Gabbard’s brother was Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard who is Tulsi Gabbard’s father.

Mike Gabbard said he forgives the person responsible for his sister’s death. And hopes justice will be served and the killer “will be punished to the full extent of the law.”

Charges Upgraded

Figiel was originally charged with manslaughter on Sunday. On Monday the police upgraded the charge to murder.

After a preliminary investigation Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo said incriminating evidence was found. 

According to Auapaau “A hammer is alleged to have been used as well as a small knife that inflicted multiple stab wounds on the deceased.” 

“We do not know what the motive is of the offending but from reports the incident occurred on Saturday and the suspect left the deceased at her home while she went out to Lotofaga and spent time with a friend.” 

“It wasn’t until Sunday morning while having breakfast that she told her friend about what she had done and that led to the matter being reported to the Police.”