KOROR, Palau — Authorities have confirmed the death of Tellames Johannes, a security guard at the Koror State Animal Center, as a homicide. The Bureau of Public Safety issued a flyer on Tuesday offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Johannes was found dead early on Oct. 30, 2024. Law enforcement initially treated the case as a suspected homicide but withheld confirmation pending an autopsy. Palau lacks a resident pathologist, and bringing one in costs approximately $10,000. Meanwhile, Johannes’ family held his funeral and burial on Nov. 22.
The public has continued to seek updates on the case, with speculation circulating that the homicide may be drug-related. Authorities have not confirmed any connection.
The Bureau of Public Safety is urging anyone with information to contact the TIPS Hotline at 488-8477.