The government of Dominica has requested aid from Canadian authorities in the inquiry of the passing of businessman and philanthropist Daniel Langlois on the Caribbean island.
The remains of Langlois, a trailblazer in 3D animation, and his significant other Dominique Marchand were discovered on Friday inside a charred vehicle at the base of a ravine on the southern end of the small island.
On Monday, Dominica’s national security minister, Rayburn Blackmoore, stated that the police are investigating the deaths as possible homicides.
According to police, the pair was reportedly attacked while driving on the road, shot, and their car crashed into a ravine and caught fire. This information was reported by AFP.
Four individuals, consisting of three non-citizens and one person from the Dominican Republic, have been apprehended for their involvement in the offense.
Blackmoore stated that we cannot overlook this heinous crime and the violence it entails. We must ensure that those accountable are held accountable and not let them escape punishment.
He stated that a solicitation was made for assistance with investigations by the Canadian officials.
He stated that the murders have caused great distress throughout the island and have left many people feeling devastated.
Langlois and Marchand established a high-end hotel in Dominica and were recently recognized by the government for their efforts in promoting the island’s growth.
Langlois became incredibly wealthy through his company, Softimage, which developed technology utilized in popular movies such as Jurassic Park, Titanic, The Matrix, and the Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean series.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Daniel Langlois,” stated the National Film Board of Canada on X, formerly known as Twitter. “His impact on the world of film cannot be quantified.”
The Canadian Heritage Minister, Pascale St-Onge, referred to Langlois as “an innovator in the fields of digital technologies and film.”
“His impact embodies his inventive mindset. My condolences go out to his family and friends.”
In 1986, Langlois established Softimage and then sold it to Microsoft in 1994. However, he remained as president until 1998, as stated on his foundation’s website.
According to the website, Langlois was awarded a scientific and technical Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1997.
Source: theguardian.com
