Figiel murder trial postponed

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The trial of playwright Sia Figiel who is charged with the murder of Professor Caroline Sinavaiana Gabbard in May 2024 has been postponed until August this year.

According to a report in the Samoa Observer, the new trial date is now August 18, 2025 to allow for the prosecution to review the lengthy medical records of the defendant, which were obtained from the United States. 

Figiel is alleged to have killed Professor Caroline Sinavaiana Gabbard in May 2024. 

According to police, Gabbard was beaten and stabbed to death. Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo had said, “A hammer is alleged to have been used as well as a small knife that inflicted multiple stab wounds on the deceased.”

“The suspect left the deceased at her home while she went out to Lotofaga and spent time with a friend.” It wasn’t until the next morning, while having breakfast, that Figiel told her friend. She allegedly came with her friend to the police station to report it and when police went to her home to check, they found the deceased’s body there.

It is believed that Figiel used Sinavaiana’s car to drive to Lotofaga.

Figiel, 58, is represented by Unasa Iuni Sapolu and appeared before the Samoa Supreme Court on Monday to reschedule her hearing day. 

She will remain in custody until her next court appearance.