Two Suspects Arrested Following Fatal Shooting of Quebec Teen in Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic authorities have confirmed the arrest of two men in connection with the tragic death of a 19-year-old Canadian from Quebec. The incident occurred on March 23, 2026, in Puerto Plata, where what began as an attempted robbery escalated into a fatal shooting.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Tristan Primeau-Poitras, originally from Quebec, was traveling with a companion when he was killed during the violent encounter. According to statements from the Dominican Republic's National Police, the suspects were identified as Jordi Yúnior Severiano and Rangel Merete Rodríguez. Both men were detained shortly after the shooting and now face serious allegations related to the attack.
Investigators allege that during the attempted robbery, one of the suspects fired on the young Quebecer, resulting in his death. Following the arrests, police reported seizing suspected marijuana and cash from the suspects. Both individuals remain in custody as the investigation continues, with charges expected to be filed in the coming days.
Community Mourns the Loss
In Ste-Julienne, approximately 70 kilometres north of Montreal, municipal officials confirmed that Primeau-Poitras was a resident of their community. The municipality released a heartfelt statement expressing profound sadness over the loss.
"It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Tristan Primeau-Poitras, a young citizen of Ste-Julienne," the statement read. "The Juliennes community is wholeheartedly with them during this difficult time."
Tributes from Loved Ones
Friends and family members have taken to social media to share their grief and pay tribute to the young man whose life was cut short. Nico Ciarlo, a close friend, described Primeau-Poitras as "like a little brother" and "a genuine person" whose presence brought light to those around him.
"We have lost a brother, a son, a best friend ... under unjust and incomprehensible circumstances," Ciarlo wrote in an emotional post. "Gone far too soon, a victim of violence that should never have existed."
Ciarlo added a sobering warning to others traveling abroad, urging increased vigilance and caution while in foreign countries. His message serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can occur even during what should be enjoyable vacations.
Ongoing Investigation
Dominican authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The case has drawn attention to safety concerns for tourists visiting the Caribbean nation, though officials emphasize that such violent incidents remain relatively rare.
The arrests represent a significant development in the case, providing some measure of progress for the grieving family and community back in Quebec. As the legal process moves forward, both Canadian and Dominican officials are expected to maintain close communication regarding the prosecution of the suspects.
This tragic event has left a community in mourning and serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, particularly when violence interrupts what should be peaceful experiences abroad.
