Minister of National Security and Legal Affairs, Rayburn Blackmoore, has disclosed that currently, three non-nationals and one Dominican are in police custody, aiding the ongoing investigation into the suspected homicide of resort owner Daniel Langlois and his partner, Dominique Marchand.
On December 1, 2023, police discovered the charred remains of two individuals in a vehicle at Gallion at about 7:00 a.m., believed to be those of French Canadians Langlois and Marchand, respected proprietors of the esteemed Coulibri Ridge Eco Resort, who have been reported as missing. The burnt vehicle discovered also aligns with the description of theirs police sources further revealed.
Unfortunately, extreme fire conditions rendered the bodies unidentifiable, compelling investigators to rely on circumstantial evidence linking them to the missing couple.
In the wake of the distressing homicide and arson Blackmoore, commended the Chief of Police and the investigative team for their prompt actions, which resulted in the detention of four individuals connected to the case.
“The officers from the Soufriere police station responded immediately and an investigative team headed by the Chief of Police made its way to the scene where an intensive investigation began,” he stated. “Thus far, there are four people of interest, three non-nationals and one national in police custody.”
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the security minister revealed that he swiftly initiated contact with the Canadian High Commissioner to convey the Commonwealth of Dominica’s sincere regret and assurance of the nation’s unwavering commitment to resolving this crime. Official requests for investigative support from Canadian authorities have been formally made, aligning with Dominica’s pursuit of justice in this matter he noted.
Addressing the severity of the crime, he remarked, “This type of terrible crime and the brutality in this crime is something we can’t ignore and we cannot allow those responsible to go unpunished.”
Blackmoore continued, “The government will provide the police force with all the resources needed to investigate this matter and to bring the perpetrators of this terrible crime to justice. Crimes like these do not only hurt international relations but this crime in particular has sent shockwave throughout the island and left the employees, family and community of the victims in mourning.”
Acknowledging the profound impact on the community and the island at large, Blackmoore underscored the need for confidentiality and assured transparency as the investigation progresses.
“While the investigation of this magnitude is being undertaken, there is the need to ensure as much as possible the highest degree of confidentiality. Given the nature of this crime and the impact on the community and the whole island this warrants that the public be kept abreast as much as possible. We therefore promise to give an update as this case evolves,” he assured the nation.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Representative in the Soufriere constituency, Denise Charles-Pemberton says the constituents stand in mourning as the community reels from the devastating loss of Langlois and Marchand.
In an emotional statement to State-owned DBS radio, Charles expressed her profound grief and highlighted the immense impact the couple had on the constituency’s development.
“These last few days have been incredibly heavy for our constituency. To lose two members of our community, who have been at the heart of its development and its sense of spirit and togetherness is something that we have struggled to put into words.”
She continued, “Daniel and Dominique may be known for their world-renowned eco-resort in the village but to the people of the Soufriere constituency and to me, they were kind, loving and truly community oriented.”
The couple’s commitment to Soufriere’s growth was profound, Charles revealed especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.
“They loved the people of our constituency dearly and had great plans in place for its development. I remember after Hurricane Maria devastated us, I called a meeting and invited every group, council and developer to put a plan forward for rebuilding. Daniel and Dominique remained committed, offering help whenever approached, especially supporting conservation and sustainability projects,” the Soufriere MP recalled.
The couple’s initiative, REZDM, played a pivotal role in funding the reconstruction of the Soufriere Primary School and Scotts Head Jetty, showcasing their unwavering dedication to community development.
“Last Thursday, we had agreed to meet early this week to go over some community projects set to commence next year. The vision we shared was monumental. Aside from losing two people of such character, it is incredibly painful to know that they will not be around to see that vision come to fruition.”
In reflecting on the couple’s character, Charles emphasized their actions spoke louder than words.
“In life, you meet people who are talkers, and those who are doers. People who do things to seek fame or recognition, and people who actually care. Daniel and Dominique cared.”
Asserting that the tragic incident doesn’t reflect the constituency’s way of life, the tourism minister reassured the public of Soufriere’s safety and community spirit.
“This was not a random act of violence. Our community is safe and secure., our people are warm and friendly and we loved the couple. They were snatched from us way too soon and we are left to feel the pain of that loss.”
Expressing gratitude for the swift action of law enforcement in apprehending suspects, Charles voiced a heartfelt plea for justice and pledged to honour the couple’s memory within the constituency.
Urging the nation to embrace love and peace, Charles concluded with a plea for unity. “Let’s be our neighbours’ keepers, dwell in peace and love. Love and peace are the only things that will prosper us,” she emphasized, extending her deepest condolences to their families, friends, and all impacted by their irreplaceable presence.
“I am making a plea to all, let’s be our neighbours’ keepers, let’s dwell in peace and love. This is all God asks of us, to love him and love our neighbour as ourselves. Anger, jealousy and hatred have no place in our small community. Love and peace are the only things that will prosper us.”
“Rest in eternal peace, Daniel and Dominique. We love you,” Charles concluded, encapsulating the collective sentiment of a community in mourning for two cherished souls.
As the investigation unfolds, Dominica News Online (DNO) remains committed to tracking this story and will report any new developments as soon as they become available.
“Most friendliest island in de islands.” But just watch your back.
These special people had it all. Heart, soul, commitment, patience, and the resources to back it up. For over 20 years, they strove to uplift the island they fell in love with. For once, I am at a loss for words to express my deepest regret and sympathy.
I just heard one of the biggest sort on island and he goes by the name of smh.FYI the top paid police chief doesn’t mean he has any skills in investigating crime
I listened with disdain to the utterances of the Min of National Security and the crocodile tears shed by the Min of Tourism; “stinking hypocrites” what did you guys do to protect these innocent souls and the citizens of the Scotts Head/Soufriere area who were constantly being denied their fundamental rights of free access. The “Starboy of stupidity” the AG, Chief of Police and the rest of this incompetent and dysfunctional administration, need to be gotten rid of by any means necessary; when will Dominicans wake up and realize that this country is being sold to the dogs; I say to those parliamentary clappers who are not even sure whether they’re coming or going and their “mouton batallie” enablers and supporters the blood of the innocent is upon you; and may their souls haunt you for the rest of your lives
Ole Police what do you Know? Nothing but to only hit at the Parl Rep and the Minister.
As an Old police, why did you not intervene in the problem when Bois Cotlette’s owner did not want anyone to pass on the “Public Road” built in the 1700′?
You are too political – no reason – can only talk politics. This political thing causing many of you to lose your common sense. Old Po wake up and stop the hate. At this time, we should all be sad about what happened. Selfishly you want to satisfy your selfish ego and hateful attitude of war/strife against an elected government.
let your disgust be displayed with the voting process when you vote Remember you guys never voted yet you want to talk about all kinds of hateful politics.
Wait to put your mouth where your money is and put your X on the ballot paper.
I fail to see any sense in what you guys are doing (opposition). No commitment nor an alternative to the current regime.
Bro you are like the “Sole fish” not surprised by your comments; i threw my corn didn’t call any fowl but your kind had to respond; i’m sure you were more than happy when your AG and Pampalam aided and abetted by the Starboy of stupidity denigrated the Kalinago woman in Parliament, i want to assure you that the X i will put on the ballot paper will neither be for you or your “mouton batallie” cabal
unfortunately this is as a result of laziness on our politicians part. With no ideas on how develop the country they resort to all scoundrels being among them with extreme hatred and getting involved in what humans cannot do.
We as a people God fearing cannot do what some dirty politicians among us do.
the Soufriere Parl Rep resorted to settling doe nastiness when they all know that they will be running to the United States so this.is the kind of so called.inveswnt opportunities. Unfortunately there will be more but our nationals will not be able to engage or do this.
I do not know who removed her from this.foeti lately for me. She should not have engaged in this – some people know – politics politics.
I bet her mouth is running all over the place literally. going to school in USA one has to be careful what one does. I know. too bad
Mr. Daniel Langlois was founder of Softimage Company. The beginning of 3D imaging software.
If this double homicidal incident, the suspected two suicides, the revocation of UK visas and other disconcerting events in recent times, do not awaken the consciousness of Domnicans, then the country is doomed.
I repeat for the umpteenth time. When a politician stays in office too long, he/she becomes bankrupt of ideas, corrupt and dictatorial. Instead of empowering the people and developing the country, he enriches himself and his inner circle of parasites. This is precisely the case in Dominica.
Dominicans should not rely on the UWP to motivate them to take action. They should be intrinsically motivated to activate change for something better.
If Dominicans don’t remove the godawful villain from the apex of power, the country will remain submerged in deep stool.
This is a recipe of Govt’s aiding snd abetting syndrome in Dominica….. the new normal. The alleged perpetrator has been the menace of INTIMIDATION to my Soufriere villagers ever since arrival in the Parish.
The authorities have sat by and do nothing about it, with villagers complaints going unnoticed and falling on death ears. Gov’t are criminally liable to the same extent as the persons committing the crime.
my condolences to the family.but my questions are
1.why is it is only for one set off people that massive manhunt and investigations are lunched?
2.are some people more important than others?
3.Is this the only burnt vehicle crime ever comited in this country?
I feel sorry for the family but i cannot help but sit and lol at the class situation that still exist in Dominica,Before it was colour,but now is who has cash.these situations only brings out and highlight who the police and government are concerned about.
who blackmore think he is?justice what?Does justice really exist.Food for you all thought.
Do you know of any other similar case in Dominica where there was no manhunt and public outcry?
Stuppes Paul.
You do not know anything. Now you are racist. Cash, Color what are you talking about?
Because arrests were made swiftly, you try to find fault. You fault looking individuals.
What do you know? Try to educate yourself about the area, then you will understand.
Too much politics in everything. If you had said that the problem of the public road should have been dealt with for a long time, I would understand. Even then, the court ruled that this is a public road and the individual should not prevent persons from passing.
So Paul what are you now saying? Red, Black, Blue, yellow we are all precious in the Creator’s sight. No one is more than another. Deal with your inadequacies. Your low self-esteem too. We have to love one another. Isn’t it?
Stop the hate and politics. Jealousy and envy too. Those attributes help in this inhumane behaviour. Take note, Paul!
I truly hope the Dominica gov’t and police force call in support from international law enforcement agencies I.e RCMP and/or FBI given the nature of the crime and having access to top tier investigative equipment and intelligence information for evidence, in addition to the fact that both Canadians and Americans are involved and implicated.
This is such an unfortunate incident but I cannot help but think that the alleged perpetrators must have felt empowered to commit to such a crime and feel they could escape unscathed and avoid facing justice for their actions given the climate and current state of crime and punishment in Dominica. The gov’t needs to take a long hard look at what’s going on in the country and make attempts to ensure Dominica doesn’t descend into chaos and disorder.
This inferiority complex is choking you. Do you know the number of cases that these organizations have not solved and cannot solve? How do you so easily think that what exists in the “white man’s” country is naturally and logically better than what you have at home?
‘White man’s country’? Really? You’re a great advert for Dominica.
We have lost our true Paliament Representative.. they helped in silence..May their soul rest in Peace and may John and followers be put to jail with no food to die.. Now pressure should be added to skerit and followers.. questions need to be answered..
Those who committed this inhumanly act are no better than savages. No effort should be spared, no resources too expensive, to bring the perpetrators before the gallows. These savages deserve nothing less.
This gruesome murder tugs at your heartstrings. It is an attack on all peace-loving Dominicans.
@ Ibo France, I totally agree with you. For this case in particular, our prosecuting team must be strengthened because they are not effective in their work. Far too many cases have gone unresolved as a result.
Ibo, go back and read what you posted when the story first came out.
Let’s be clear. First , I don’t believe in anything this Blackmore says because this human being shouldn’t be a government minister and in a real country he would be in another room wearing another suit.
Like Blackmore I don’t believe that Dennis Charles either. In fact to be clear I don’t believe in anyone in the Skerrit Cabal.
But the most disturbing part of this article is this “The officers from the Soufriere police station responded immediately and an investigative team headed by the Chief of Police made its way to the scene where an intensive investigation began,” he stated. “
Why should Daniel Carbon head the investigation team? Is it to interfere, intervene, influence or intimidate, if not corrupt the facts of the investigation? On whose behalf did the police chief find himself as leader of this investigation? For the country or corrupt politicians? Boy I am sorry but I give up on the facts of this investigation . Hope top attorneys didn’t find themselves there too
Boy some of you really sort as we say in dominica. This is a major crime, of course the highest authority in the force would be involved. Instead of taking every single tragedy as an opportunity to insert politics why not try to be of some use to the country