Male resident of Delices, Abner Etienne, is dead following what is being described as a tragic drowning incident at sea in the Delices area on Saturday 22, February 2025.
According to police reports, the lifeless body of Etienne was recovered by a crew from the Dominica Coast Guard.
He was medically declared dead by the district doctor and transported to a funeral home pending an autopsy.
Reports further stated that it appeared that Etienne was swept away at sea in distress, by a wave, whilst he was rock fishing.
Etienne was a councillor on the Delices Village Council, leaving residents of Delices and fellow councillors to express deep sadness at his untimely passing.
In a Facebook post, the council noted that the tragic event that led to the loss of their beloved member has left the Delices Village Council devastated.
“As we grieve this terrible loss our hearts are broken. Councillor Abner Etienne was a sitting member of the Delices Village Council,” the post said. “ His enthusiasm and passion at meetings to see Delices develop will surely be missed. Abner never hesitated to offer assistance to everyone in need in the community.”
The post continued, “ When it came to community projects and other activities he was the first one present. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and the entire community of Delices. May we be comforted during this difficult time and may his soul rest in peace.”
The preliminary investigation by the district police suggests no foul play and the death seems to be related to a tragic drowning incident.
May his soul rest in peace.
This is very unfortunate. Sadly similar things have happened many times. The fisheries department should do better by advising fishermen regarding safety including use of life vests. If government has to subsidize the costs they should as well. Some fishermen have gotten free boats and gear so I’m sure it’s affordable to govt. We may have saved more lives in the past if this was widely followed. That includes people lost at sea as passengers. We have to take safety more seriously. We have all the political billboards but anyone on safety? It’s not less manly to put on protective gear (this extends to motor vehicles as well).
It’s very heartbreaking that a moment of pleasure and enjoyment could turn so tragic. Life is so fickle in these times.
I hope his sterling contributions to his community and humanity, in general, will give his immediate family, friends, neighbours and fellow councillors reasons to celebrate such a productive life. May his soul rest in permanent tranquility.