Domata Peko, Jonathan Fanene and Rey Maualuga affected by Samoan quakes and tsunami

by Josh Kirkendall on Sep 30, 2009 2:57 PM EDT

On Tuesday, the USGS measured an 8.0 earthquake in the Samoa Islands Region which caused a tsunami that destroyed villages and affected so many lives. Another earthquake hit along the fault line, "just off the coast of Padang city", that caused the 2004 tsunami, killing nearly a quarter of a million people.

Wednesday's quake came a day after a quake with a magnitude of between 8.0 and 8.3 in the South Pacific hurled a massive tsunami at the shores of Samoa and American Samoa, flattening villages and leaving at least 99 dead and dozens missing.

President Obama is sending relief supplies, calling a "major disaster declaration for the territory of American Samoa."

The Bengals have several Samoans on roster this year. Domata Peko got word that his entire family is alright. Jonathan Fanene's immediate family is alright, however, he lost "four relatives on his father’s side". As of Wednesday afternoon, linebacker Rey Maualuga is "still trying to contact his younger brother".

"A lot of people are stranded and people are trying to look," Maualuga said. "All you can do is pray about it. When the time comes for us to help, I'll step up." Maualuga said his mom has tried to call his younger brother, but many phone lines were wiped out by the tsunami.

Here's hoping that everything turns out alright.

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i wondered about these guys as soon as i heard the news...

i sincerely hope Rey’s brother is alright and i cannot imagine how embarrassing it must be that Rey has to focus on football in times like these.

by GrooveLeg on Sep 30, 2009 3:05 PM EDT reply actions

Prayers and wishes sent!

by UpStateMike on Sep 30, 2009 3:16 PM EDT reply actions

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU, YOUR FAMILIES & FREINDS

by WHYUS!! on Sep 30, 2009 3:45 PM EDT reply actions

Charity Fundraiser

I think that a fundraising event should be organize to raise money for relief efforts in Samoa. Since they’ve given us three great players – we should return the favor and support that tiny island nation.

by BearcatGirl on Sep 30, 2009 4:01 PM EDT reply actions

i was thinking the same thing

i hope the Bengals organize an event to benefit those affected. in this economic environment many of us have little to give but we all have more than those in Somoa. i have shame not knowing Samoa was a US territory. i hope many step up to provide relief for those in need.

"I have found me a home"

by obc2 on Sep 30, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions