Family Challenges Cause-of-Death Findings After Gatineau Couple Found Dead Abroad

The family of a Gatineau, Quebec couple found dead earlier this winter in the Dominican Republic has publicly disputed the preliminary cause-of-death findings issued by local authorities abroad, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the explanation given so far. According to the family, the initial determination — which attributed the deaths to what local officials called respiratory failure, pulmonary oedema, high blood pressure and diabetes — fails to convincingly explain how both individuals died on the same night without warning signs.

Relatives say the couple appeared healthy and had been in regular contact shortly before their deaths, making the official summary “unclear and unconvincing,” according to family statements. They argue that the preliminary results lack sufficient medical detail and do not answer key questions about the timing and sequence of events leading to the deaths, prompting them to reject the rulings pending further investigation.

In response, family members are calling for full medical and autopsy reports — including the results of additional tests not yet completed — before they will accept any official conclusion about the cause of death. They have urged the authorities handling the case to release more comprehensive information and increase transparency in the inquiry.

The Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is aware of the incident and has been providing consular support to the family. A spokesperson for the ministry said officials are in contact with Dominican authorities to obtain additional information about the investigation, while also respecting privacy laws and ongoing procedures in the foreign jurisdiction.

At this stage, investigations and medical procedures remain ongoing, with the family insisting that the matter should not be considered closed until a clear and complete medical explanation is produced. They have emphasised that obtaining a thorough autopsy and explanation is not only important for closure but also for ensuring that the truth behind the deaths is fully understood and publicly acknowledged.