The family of the former TV3 General Manager Aotearoa Pesamino Mayer, whose death early in the week is now the subject of a Police investigation, has made a public appeal for online speculation on the cause of her death to cease.

A family member of the late Aotearoa, who did not want to be identified for security reasons, wrote to the Samoa Observer to relay their family's concerns as well as to respond to the public outpouring of grief and sympathy following her untimely death. 

"It is with heartfelt appreciation that Aotearoa’s family acknowledges the very kind expressions of love, condolence and concern on the passing of a much beloved niece, sister and cousin," the family member said. 

"Your expressions of comfort and support have helped us in dealing with the grief which we all share, with the sudden loss of such a dynamic, warm and beautiful person from our lives.

"We do, however, respectfully ask that all speculation about Roa’s cause of death cease immediately, particularly on social media platforms, as we simply will not know for certain until a post mortem is performed."

The family member emphasised that the speculation on social media platforms is affecting them, and it is not right that she is talked about in that way, while also acknowledging and thanking the Police for its investigation. 

"Such speculation has made our loss harder to bear and affected us deeply, as her reputation and the person she was in life, is now the subject of unnecessary gossip and innuendo.

"The Ministry of Police have undertaken their work efficiently and professionally, and we offer our sincere thanks to the Commissioner of Police and his officers for their dedication and service in dealing with Roa's case.

"Finally, we are humbled by the many friends and family who have offered their love and support, and we pray that God’s hand of Love Mercy and Grace comfort and sustain us all at this sad time."

In press conference convened at the Police Headquarters last Thursday, Deputy Police Commissioner, Papalii Monalisa Tiai-Keti told the media that the body of the late TV3 employee is under police custody until an autopsy is done to ascertain the cause of death. 

It is suspected that Ms. Pesamino passed away on Monday 23 January 2023 with the Police treating her death at Ululoloa as a homicide case.