Tristan Primeau-Poitras: Two Suspects Arrested in Dominican Republic Homicide
Just two days after the tragic death of 19-year-old Quebecer Tristan Primeau-Poitras in the Dominican Republic, police have arrested two men they believe are responsible for the homicide. This developing story has shocked many and prompted questions about safety for tourists in the region.
Details of the Arrest
The Dominican Republic National Police confirmed Wednesday evening that they had apprehended Jordi Yunior Severiano, 23, and Rangel Merete Rodriguez, 30. Both suspects are residents of Puerto Plata, the area where Primeau-Poitras was vacationing with his family at the Senator Hotel, approximately six miles from the city center.
According to police spokesperson Diego Pesqueria, the two individuals were initially detained on drug possession charges before being taken into custody for questioning. Tristan Primeau-Poitras’s brother positively identified the suspects during a police lineup as the individuals who opened fire on the highway connecting Puerto Plata to Maimon early Monday morning. The suspects are scheduled to appear before a judge in Puerto Plata on Thursday morning. The specific charges they will face are still pending confirmation.
What Happened?
According to Étienne Primeau-Poitras, who was driving the vehicle, he and his brother had left the hotel to purchase sandwiches. On their return, they were approached by two individuals on a motorcycle just meters from the hotel. The police report that the assailants were not wearing masks.
Dominican police have also questioned several other individuals as part of the investigation, with at least six people currently in custody.
Investigation Continues
While the initial theory points to a failed robbery, questions remain regarding the exact circumstances that led to Tristan Primeau-Poitras being shot. “It’s possible they [the suspects] intended to rob them, but when they didn’t stop, they fired at the victim,” Pesqueria stated. Local journalist Junior Henriquez, from El Nuevo Norte, described the area where the shooting occurred as “not safe for anyone,” particularly in the early morning hours. “It’s a very sensitive situation here. The authorities are taking the case seriously,” he added.
If you have any information related to this case, please contact authorities.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
