Samoan author charged with killing prominent writer who was related to former US congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard

An author in Samoa has been accused of killing another well-known Samoan writer, who was also the aunt of former U.S. congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, according to authorities in Samoa. The two women were important in the Pacific literary world. The accused author, Figiel, is in custody and will appear in court soon. The victim, Sinavaiana-Gabbard, was a poet and environmentalist. She was the first Samoan person to become a full professor at a U.S. university. She and Figiel had been friends for 30 years. The women had an argument on the day Sinavaiana-Gabbard was killed. Her body was found at Figiel's home in Samoa's capital, Apia, two days later. Figiel reported the death to the police. The reason for the crime is still being investigated. The cause of Sinavaiana-Gabbard's death has not been confirmed. Tulsi Gabbard, the victim's niece, shared that her aunt inspired her to write and was a positive influence in her life. Sinavaiana-Gabbard was highly respected for her work in literature and teaching. She was praised for her dedication to Pacific literature by her colleagues. Her brother, Mike Gabbard, a state senator, credited her for his own achievements and teaching career. The community mourns the loss of a talented writer and educator.