The son of Alain Noël and Christine Sauvé discovered their bodies inside the couple’s vacation home in the Dominican Republic last week. Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding their deaths. CBC
A family in Gatineau, Quebec, faces deep grief this holiday season after two loved ones died while travelling in the Dominican Republic. Alain Noël and Christine Sauvé were found dead inside their vacation home on Boxing Day.
The couple’s son discovered their bodies and immediately alerted authorities. Local officials have not yet confirmed the cause of death and continue to investigate the circumstances.
Investigation Underway
Authorities in the Dominican Republic have launched an investigation and ordered autopsies. According to Sauvé’s brother, Gilles Sauvé Jr., officials said the family should receive the autopsy results within 45 days.
Speaking in French, Sauvé Jr. appeared shaken as he described the loss and the uncertainty surrounding it.
"It was their retirement plan, like snowbirds," he said, referring to the couple’s regular trips abroad.
Health Concerns Before Deaths
Sauvé Jr. said he spoke with his sister the day before the tragedy. During that conversation, she shared that she had gone to the hospital after feeling dizzy.
She underwent blood tests and planned to return for more medical scans on Boxing Day.
"In the end, it didn't come to that,” he said.
Delays and Difficult Process Abroad
Sauvé Jr. has since travelled to the Dominican Republic to manage the difficult process of securing death certificates, meeting with local officials, and arranging for the couple’s return to Quebec.
"What's very difficult is that we're not in Quebec [and it's] the holiday season. Everything is closed, including the embassies. We're trying to get things done, but everything is progressing very slowly," he said.
"Even in Quebec, we can't begin the process until we have the death certificate here in the Dominican Republic."
Canadian Officials Offer Support
Global Affairs Canada confirmed that Canadian officials are providing help to the family. Consular staff continue to work with local authorities to gather information and support the family during this difficult time.
Remembered as Community Figures
Family members and friends described Noël and Sauvé as deeply connected to their community. Sauvé Jr. spoke warmly of his brother-in-law’s personality.
"Alain was a bon vivant, he had many friends," he said. "He was a big softie in a very imposing man's body."
Gatineau city councillor Luc Chénier said the couple left a lasting impression on the city. Chénier, who knows the family well, noted their strong ties to local hockey.
"They are hockey fans ... and this franchise is a big part of it. Even the children and grandchildren have been involved with the Olympiques," he said.
Chénier also recalled how neighbours looked forward to the couple’s home decorations each Halloween.
"What’s so sad is that people work their whole lives to achieve something, and then tragedy strikes," he said.
