The Coroner in Samoa has ordered an autopsy on novelist and poet Papalii Sia Figiel, who was found dead in her cell at Tanumalala Prison early Monday morning.
She had been in police custody since 2024 for the death of American Samoan Professor Sinavaiana Caroline Gabbard.
Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga told a press conference that prison officers took Figiel to Faleolo District Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
He added that, for the time being, no foul play is suspected but investigations are continuing.
