INVESTIGATIONS into the mysterious deaths of David and Michelle Paul — the American couple who died while holidaying in Nadi in May — are not over.
This was the word from newly-appointed US ambassador to Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga and Tuvalu, Joseph Cella.
Speaking to The Fiji Times in Suva yesterday, he said he trusted in US agencies involved in the investigations to ascertain what may have led to their deaths and provide closure for their families.
“The death of any US citizen abroad is uniquely devastating and challenging for the families and for those who tend to that crisis moment the host nation and, in this instance, the US,” he said.
“There are some very capable and competent and quality staff that have been engaged, were engaged through it all and remain engaged and they will see it through to the end.”
Ambassador Cella said the deaths were not unique to Fiji and cited similar events in a popular South American island getaway for American tourists.
“I know that this is happening in the Dominican Republic in a more widespread sense but I think that is being managed quite well with the government, with some challenges, and our embassy there.”
He added that once causes of death were determined, it would bring relief to the couple’s families.
“I think once the cause of their passing has been engaged, that will offer closure to their family.
“I really have no immediate specifics beyond that and I trust our great team and consular affairs at the embassy to handle the family and the press with great dignity and respect and the attention that it deserves.”
Ambassador Cella said the couple’s deaths had not impacted on visitor arrivals from America.
“I know US citizens travel to Fiji is inhibited, they continue to fly in, in great numbers and I will do my best to ensure they keep coming in larger numbers.”
David and Michelle Paul arrived in the country on May 19.
They both fell violently ill and were treated at a private clinic in Nadi. Michelle died on May 22.
David died five days later at the Lautoka Hospital.
