I know. I wish I knew more information.(...) We were originally told he passed away in his sleep and then the FBI started contacting people asking questions. No one is sure what's going on at this point.*
so this corresponds with the info i found so far...
it is difficult to track info about natural deaths of foreigners in DR. it does not really make it to national media but local news sites and blogs may mention it so it would be easier if you knew the location where he died.
in addition to that dominican media often misspells foreign names, even in the articles with pictures of documents of deceased that clearly display the info. sometimes the name may not be mentioned at all, just nationality.
finally, if there is an active investigation in this case, especially involving FBI it is possible that news about this particular death were not made public or the articles in local media were removed.
my condolences and sympathy on the passing of your friend. may he rest in peace.