In a surprising turn of events, Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard, the aunt of former Hawaii Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, tragically lost her life in Samoa. Papalii Sia Figiel, a celebrated Samoan author and playwright, stands accused of her murder.
On May 25, the peaceful village of Vaivase-Uta, located approximately three miles from Samoa’s capital city of Apia, became the scene of a horrifying crime.Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard, aged 78, was not just an ordinary individual. She was a retired former University of Hawaii professor, an accomplished writer, a dedicated teacher, and an environmental activist.
The victim suffered a brutal fate—stabbed multiple times and beaten with a hammer, according to local police reports.
Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard and Papalii Sia Figiel were more than mere acquaintances. They were colleagues and friends. Their connection ran deep, and their paths had intersected in both personal and professional realms.
Caroline “Sina” Sinavaiana-Gabbard, a prominent poet, writer, and teacher, was the first person of Samoan ancestry to become a full professor at an American university. She taught Pacific literature at the University of Hawaii for over 20 years before retiring. Her scholarly writings and creative works were widely published in international journals and anthologies.
Papalii Sia Figiel, another well-known Samoan author, was charged with her murder. The incident occurred at Figiel’s GaluMoana Theater in Vaivase-Uta, Samoa. According to police reports, Figiel and Sinavaiana-Gabbard were arguing when Figiel allegedly stabbed her multiple times and beat her with a hammer. Figiel fled to a friend’s house, where she was later arrested. Initially arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, the charge was later upgraded to murder after further investigation.
Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard was not only a respected colleague but also a mentor to Papalii Sia Figiel. Their friendship spanned many years, and their shared passion for literature and writing connected them deeply. Sen. Mike Gabbard, Caroline’s brother, described her as his best friend during their teenage years. He followed in her footsteps, majoring in English at Sonoma State University in California, and later taught English in American Samoa. Despite the tragedy, he expressed forgiveness for the murderer and hoped for justice to be served.
It’s heartbreaking to think that such a close friendship ended in such a violent manner. The loss of Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard is felt not only by her family but also by the literary community that admired her work and dedication to education and culture
Tulsi Gabbard, the former congresswoman, had a special bond with Figiel. She served as his mentor, guiding him through the intricate world of literature and creativity.Notably, Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard was not only Tulsi’s aunt but also the sister of Hawaii state Sen. Mike Gabbard. The tragedy reverberated through their family and community.
Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard’s accomplishments were remarkable.She broke barriers as the first Samoan to become a full professor in the U.S. Her academic journey took her from undergraduate studies in English and psychology at Sonoma State University to a master’s degree in folklore from the University of California, Berkeley, and finally a Ph.D. in American studies from the University of Hawaii. Her legacy extended beyond academia. She championed environmental causes, leaving an indelible mark on her students and the community.
Family’s Response
Mike Gabbard, Caroline’s brother and Tulsi Gabbard’s uncle, shared poignant memories:
“Caroline was my best friend as a teenager. She got me hooked on reading, so much so that I followed in her footsteps and majored in English at Sonoma State University in California.”
Despite the tragedy, he expressed forgiveness toward the person responsible for her death. However, he hopes that justice will prevail.
Conclusion
The loss of Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard leaves a void . A reminder of life’s fragility and the impact one person can have. As legal proceedings unfold, we mourn her passing and seek answers.