On Thursday, two American Christian missionaries tragically lost their lives to gang violence in Haiti, as confirmed by Missouri State Rep. Ben Baker. Regrettably, this incident also claimed the life of Rep. Baker’s daughter, Natalie.
Davy and Natalie Lloyd, a couple who dedicated their lives as full-time missionaries in Haiti, tragically lost their lives on Thursday at 9 p.m. In a devastating incident, they were shot and killed, as confirmed by Missions In Haiti, Inc. The heartbreaking news was shared on Facebook by Baker, who also revealed that the U.S. State Department has retrieved their bodies.
Baker expressed her deep anguish, stating, “My heart is shattered into countless fragments. This pain is unlike anything I have ever experienced before.” She further added, “They departed for Heaven together. I humbly request your prayers for my family, as we are in desperate need of strength. I also ask for your prayers for the Lloyd family. At this moment, I am at a loss for words.”
Missions In Haiti, a nonprofit Christian ministry, was established by David and Alicia Lloyd in 2000. The organization has been actively serving in the Caribbean nation for over two decades. In June 2022, Davy, the couple’s son, and his wife, Natalie Lloyd (Baker), joined the mission, as shared on Natalie’s Instagram account. The Lloyd family’s commitment to the mission in Haiti spans generations, making a significant impact in the lives of the local community.
Haiti’s Transitional Council Embraces Unprecedented Leadership Rotation Amidst Rampant Gang Violence
American missionaries Davy and Natalie Lloyd were tragically killed in a gang attack in Haiti, according to a statement made by Natalie’s father, Missouri State Rep. Ben Baker. The devastating incident occurred on Thursday, leaving their loved ones and the community in shock and mourning.
Davy, Natalie, and a group of children were attending a youth group gathering at church on Thursday when they were unexpectedly attacked by a gang of three trucks filled with men, as reported by the nonprofit organization, Davy.
People were forced to leave their neighborhoods following the terrorization by armed gangs in the Delmas 24 and Solino areas on the night of May 1, 2024, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
According to the group, there was another gang that arrived at the scene to assess the situation and offer their assistance, as they claim.
According to Missions In Haiti, the situation was unclear, and there was a lack of understanding about the events that unfolded. However, it was reported that one person was fatally shot, which triggered a violent retaliation from the gang.
The Haiti Council has made the decision to appoint a new Prime Minister in the midst of the country’s ongoing struggle with deadly gang violence.
In this image, we can see Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, the leader of an armed gang, along with his men in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The photo was taken on March 5, 2024.
The missionaries in Haiti were unable to maintain communication with the missions. Several hours later, a heartbreaking update was shared, revealing that Davy, Natalie, and Jude had tragically lost their lives in the attack.
Additional information was not immediately provided by Missions in Haiti and Rep. Baker in response to requests.
A GoFundMe page has been established by Chris Slinkard, a family friend, and Missouri State Rep. Dirk Deaton, to support the Baker/Lloyd family. As of Friday at 3:17 p.m., generous donors have contributed $9,860 towards the goal of $20,000.
Former President Donald Trump expressed his condolences regarding the tragedy, sharing a heartfelt message on Truth Social, saying, “God bless Davy and Natalie.”
“This is such a tragedy. Haiti has completely lost control. We need to find the killers immediately!!!” expressed Trump.
13 people lost their lives when heavy rains triggered a devastating landslide in Haiti. The torrential downpour caused the unstable terrain to give way, resulting in a tragic loss of life.
Sporadic gunfire broke out in Port-au-Prince on the evening of March 8, causing residents to frantically seek shelter amidst the escalating gang violence in the Haitian capital. Haitian police officers swiftly deployed in response to the situation, aiming to restore peace and protect the safety of the city’s inhabitants. The challenging circumstances underline the urgent need for effective measures to address the rampant gang activity that has engulfed Port-au-Prince.
Haiti, a country burdened by poverty, natural disasters, and corruption, has descended into deeper chaos since February 29th. On that day, gangs carried out synchronized attacks, setting police stations ablaze, assaulting the main international airport, and raiding Haiti’s two largest prisons, resulting in the release of over 4,000 prisoners. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing paralysis of the country’s largest seaport, leading to dwindling supplies of essential items such as food and medication.
The U.N.’s World Food Program reveals a staggering statistic: over 1.4 million Haitians are teetering on the brink of famine.
After the arrest and conviction of Joly “Yonyon” Germine and Eliande Tunis in Florida for the kidnapping and ransom of 16 U.S. citizens and one Canadian, including five young children, during a missionary trip to an orphanage in October 2021, “Barbeque” rose to power as the new leader among rival gang factions.
US National Security Faces Major Risks as Gangs Battle for Control Over Haiti
The United States is currently grappling with significant risks to its national security as violent gangs engage in a power struggle for control over Haiti. This volatile situation poses a serious threat to the stability and well-being of the region, as well as to American interests. The escalating violence and political instability in Haiti have created an environment where criminal organizations are vying for dominance, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the Haitian people and their government.
The ongoing battle for control over Haiti between rival gangs has led to a surge in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion. These activities not only undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in the government but also have far-reaching implications for regional security. With its proximity to the United States and the potential for spillover effects, the situation in Haiti demands immediate attention and action.
The United States recognizes the gravity of the situation and has expressed concern over the deteriorating security conditions in Haiti. Efforts are underway to address the crisis, including the deployment of additional law enforcement personnel to support local authorities in combating gang violence and organized crime. Additionally, the US government is working closely with international partners and organizations to provide assistance and support to the Haitian people during this challenging time.
However, despite these efforts, the situation in Haiti remains precarious, and the risks to US national security persist. The United States must continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and explore additional measures to ensure the stability and security of both Haiti and its own interests in the region. This includes supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening the rule of law, promoting economic development, and fostering political stability in Haiti.
The battle for control over Haiti by rival gangs is not only a local issue but also a matter of concern for the United States and the international community. The stability and security of Haiti are essential for the overall well-being of the region and the prevention of transnational criminal activities. It is crucial that concerted efforts are made to address the root causes of the crisis and to support the Haitian people in their quest for a safer and more prosperous future.
In conclusion, the ongoing power struggle between gangs in Haiti poses a significant risk to US national security. The United States must remain vigilant and take decisive action to address the challenges posed by this volatile situation. By supporting Haiti in its efforts to restore stability, promote economic development, and combat organized crime, the United States can help safeguard its own interests while contributing to a safer and more secure region.
President Biden and Kenya’s President William Ruto participate in a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House in Washington, on Thursday, May 23, 2024. During the event, they stand together to honor the U.S. National Anthem. The photo captures this significant moment as a symbol of their diplomatic ties and mutual respect. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
President Biden’s administration has committed to providing a substantial financial contribution of $300 million to support a multinational force tasked with restoring law and order in Haiti. This initiative will involve the deployment of 1,000 highly trained police officers from Kenya to assist in the efforts.
“Haiti lies in a region of the Caribbean that is highly unstable,” Biden expressed during a press conference alongside Kenyan President William Ruto on Thursday. “There are numerous factors at play within this hemisphere. Therefore, we find ourselves in a position where we aim to provide assistance without giving the impression that America is imposing its will and dictating the course of action.”
Haiti’s primary international airport in Port-au-Prince welcomed its first flights since March on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to restore normalcy. However, it is worth noting that the seaport remains closed at this time. The Associated Press reports that a concerning situation persists in the capital city, with reports indicating that gangs hold control over approximately 80% of the area.
Hundreds of citizens who fled the violence, along with nonprofit groups operating in the besieged capital, have been evacuated by helicopter by the U.S. government.
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