Body found is ID’d as local fisherman ‘Ernie’

Authorities have identified the decomposed body discovered behind a Garapan snack bar last Sunday as that of a local fisherman known by the name “Ernie,” the Department of Public Safety confirmed yesterday. The identity was provided by witnesses who had contact with the man in recent days.

The grim discovery was made on Oct. 6, 2024, when a worker at the RNV Snack Bar arrived at the location and was drawn to a foul odor coming from behind the building. Following the scent, the worker found the body in a makeshift shack just behind the snack bar.

Due to the advanced state of decomposition, DPS is still working to officially confirm the deceased’s identity and determine the cause of death. The Criminal Investigation Bureau continues to investigate, and the public is encouraged to come forward with any information that could aid in the case.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the DPS Criminal Investigation Bureau at (670) 664-9042 or call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (670) 234-7272 to remain anonymous.