A Canadian married couple vacationing in the Dominican Republic were found dead in their holiday home late last month, leaving their family searching for answers as authorities continue investigations into the unexplained deaths.

Christine Sauvé, 55, and her husband Alain Noël, 56, both from Québec, were found unresponsive by their son Jonathan inside their vacation house in the El Indio Village residential complex in Villa Riva on December 26, family members confirmed.

Found unresponsive by son

According to Christine’s brother Gilles Sauvé Jr., the couple’s son discovered them in bed after noticing they had not woken up that morning — unusual for Alain, who was normally an early riser. Emergency services were alerted, and local authorities later confirmed both had died at the scene.

Police have said the deaths are under investigation, but no conclusions have yet been drawn. Autopsies have been conducted, and the family has been informed that preliminary results are expected shortly, while final reports could take up to four months.

Health concerns before deaths

Family members said Christine had experienced dizziness and suffered a fall a day earlier, prompting a hospital visit on December 25. She underwent blood tests and was advised to return for further scans the following day. Alain reportedly also experienced mild dizziness but focused on caring for his wife.

Both later spoke with family in Canada via video call, appearing tired but otherwise normal. They mentioned stomach discomfort but did not suspect food poisoning. Both had pre-existing conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

No signs of foul play so far

While local media speculation has ranged from homicide to suicide, Gilles firmly rejected such claims, saying the couple had no history suggesting self-harm and were devoted parents to their two children, Jonathan, 30, and Sabrina, 28.

Dominican authorities have not released further details. Global Affairs Canada confirmed it is in contact with local officials but cited privacy laws in declining further comment.

Family remembers kindness and love

Married for over 30 years, Christine and Alain had planned to retire in the Dominican Republic. Gilles described his sister as deeply caring and Alain as gentle and warm-hearted.

“It’s a huge loss,” he said. “Losing them both at the same time is devastating for the family, especially for their children.”

The investigation remains ongoing as the family awaits official findings.