A Samoan father, Tavau Junior Misikau, is left shattered and mourning the loss of his beloved daughter, who fell victim to domestic violence at the hands of her estranged partner. The incident occurred on Sunday, June 25, 2023, in Salinas, California, leaving the community in shock and sorrow.
Eleni Tauvau, a 30-year-old mother of three, had courageously filed a domestic violence protection order against her partner, recognizing the need to safeguard herself and her children from harm. However, her efforts to break free from the cycle of abuse were tragically cut short.
The Salinas Police Department responded to the distressing scene at Eleni Tauvau’s apartment, discovering her still clinging to life despite suffering from multiple stab wounds. As officers rushed to her aid, the unimaginable reality unfolded before them; the presence of her two toddler-aged children serving as innocent witnesses to the violent act that claimed their mother’s life.
Although immediate medical assistance was rendered to Tauvau, she later died at a local hospital from her severe injuries and left her family in deep despair. The pain of losing a loved one to such a brutal act of violence is immeasurable, particularly when it is inflicted by someone she once shared a life with and entrusted with their children’s well-being.
Rodrigo Bravo, the father of Tauvau’s young children, surrendered himself to authorities at the Salinas Police Department later that evening. His arrest on charges of murdering Eleni Tauvau is another tragedy and a reminder of the magnitude of domestic violence on Pacific women.
Eleni Tauvau’s father, Misikau shared his grief to the world on social media with deep regrets for the loss of his precious daughter. In a heartfelt video that quickly went viral, he conveyed the memories he held, carrying her on his neck as they walked to school and waiting patiently until she finished her day before accompanying her back home.
Misikau also recalled the sacrifices he made during their time in Samoa, where he worked tirelessly to support his family on a small income. “When I worked at Samatic, I received $70 tala per week, and every payday, she would wait for me to buy her McDonald’s,” he added, his voice filled with anguish.
He also shared regrets of not going to America to visit her when she asked. Eleni Tauvau’s untimely death serves as a tragic reminder of domestic violence on women. The grief-stricken father’s plea carries a weighty message calling on society to stand together, take action against domestic violence, and ensure that no other family has to endure such unbearable heartache.