The body of a dead man was discovered in a garage next to a house at Satui Mulifanua, west of Upolu, last Tuesday.

The Samoa Observer has been told that the Police are investigating the cause of death.

The deceased man has been identified as Kepi Tuputala from Satui Mulifanua.

He was the caretaker of the property where he died.

The property owner lives abroad.

A 45-year-old man, Pelu Faasamoa, told the Samoa Observer that he and the deceased lived in the same property they were taking care of on behalf of its owner.

He said he last spoke to the deceased the day before he was found dead.

Describing what he saw, he said there was blood all over the garage and on a chair where the deceased could have sat on before his death.  

He said he went to see the neighbours to raise the alarm after discovering the body.

He added that a gun was discovered next to the body of the deceased.

"Up until now, I am still very shocked about what has happened,” said Mr. Fa’asamoa.

“The only thing that came to my mind the moment I saw him was that he took his own life but I've heard from the Police that they are investigating a murder.”

According to Mr. Faasamoa, the Police said a bullet was discovered lodged in the body of the deceased but the wound was not deep, leading to suspicion that he could have been shot.

The deceased lived alone in a small house next to the Salvation for Freedom Church in Satui.

Reverend Ali Gafotusi told the Samoa Observer Kepi was a member of his congregation.

He said he was a very good man and the community is in shock about what has happened.

"We would always chat about the word of God whenever he comes by my house,” said Rev. Ali.

“I know he was always trying to understand more and follow the word of God.”

He also said the deceased is the only one of the siblings who lives in Samoa while the rest live off island.

The body of the deceased is now the subject of an investigation.

Attempts by this newspaper to speak to the brother of the deceased and the Police were unsuccessful.