Ex-Rota councilman dies from gunshot wound

Former Rota Municipal councilman Kevin Taimanao Atalig died of gunshot wound at his house in Songsong Village on Rota last Friday morning, Saipan Tribune learned.

It is not clear yet whether it was a self-inflicted wound or an accident.

Department of Public Safety acting spokesman Sgt. Jason Tarkong confirmed that Atalig passed away, but stated he has not details yet as of yesterday afternoon.

“He was a friend of mine. He’s a great entertainer,” Tarkong said.

A singer, Atalig was awarded as Local Artist of the Year during the 15thAnnual Governor’s Arts and 3rd Annual Humanities Award in November 1999.

Atalig served as Rota Municipal councilman in the 1990s.

Sen. Teresita A. Santos (R-Rota) said she will introduce a resolution honoring Atalig for his contributions to the Commonwealth as a councilman and as a performing artist.