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Corrections officer dies of apparently natural causes while on duty

Territorial Correctional Facility TCF
Joyetter@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A corrections officer with the Department of Public Safety collapsed while on duty at the Tafuna Correctional Facility. He was declared dead upon arrival at LBJ hospital on Friday afternoon.  

This was confirmed by Deputy Police Commissioner, Terry Letuli in response to questions from Samoa News. 

"He collapsed at the TCF and medical assistance was required, at the hospital, they attempted to revive him but efforts were unsuccessful. We are investigating as to what is the cause of death. 

"As you know any death-related matter is treated as a homicide by the Police until evidence says otherwise. The Criminal Investigation Division is investigating this matter including looking into the medical history of the Corrections Officer. 

“Those things are confidential, but part of the investigation is to determine whether the Corrections Officer has underlying medical conditions."

Letuli said they received the official information regarding the officer upon arrival at the hospital, his mother and wife were present, according to the report.

"It's saddening what occurred when one dies while on duty. It was a sad day for the Department and especially the TCF. On behalf of the Department of Public Safety we express our deepest condolences to the mourning family," said Letuli. 

His name has not been officially released.