A young American couple serving as missionaries in Haiti were killed by gang members on Thursday evening. The devastating news was confirmed by family members and the organization they worked for.
Davy Lloyd III, 23, and his wife, Natalie Lloyd, 21, were attacked by gangs as they were leaving a youth event at their church, according to a Facebook post by Natalie’s father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker. “They went to Heaven together,” he said in his heartfelt message.
The Lloyds had been married since 2022 and were dedicated missionaries for Missions in Haiti, Inc., an organization founded by Davy Lloyd’s parents over two decades ago. The nonprofit has been a significant presence in Haiti, running several ministries including homes for boys and children, churches, and schools.
The attack occurred when the couple and their children were ambushed by three trucks full of armed men. Missions in Haiti reported that Davy was tied up and beaten before the gang stole their vehicles and other belongings. Tragically, the couple was later shot and killed around 9 p.m.
“This evening when Davy, Natalie, and the kids were coming out of Youth event at the church they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys,” the organization posted. “Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left.”
Rep. Baker expressed his profound grief on social media, asking for prayers and strength for both his and the Lloyd family. “I have no other words for now,” he wrote, mourning the loss of his daughter and son-in-law.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson also expressed his condolences, calling the news “absolutely heartbreaking.”
The security situation in Haiti has been deteriorating for years, with gangs increasingly gaining control over large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The ongoing violence has been a significant concern for international observers and organizations working in the region.
In response to the escalating crisis, the White House released a statement urging the rapid deployment of a UN Security Council-approved international police force to bolster the Haitian National Police. A national security spokesperson conveyed the administration’s condolences and emphasized the urgency of addressing the security situation in Haiti.
“We are aware of the reports of the deaths of U.S. citizens in Haiti. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief,” the spokesperson said. “The security situation in Haiti cannot wait.”
President Biden, in a joint news conference with Kenyan President William Ruto, defended the decision not to deploy U.S. troops to Haiti, citing concerns about potential misinterpretations and emphasizing the support already provided to the Haitian National Police.
The plight of the Haitian people and the dangerous conditions faced by missionaries like the Lloyds have been highlighted in numerous posts by Missions in Haiti. Earlier this year, the organization described the worsening control of gangs and the chaos reigning in the country.
David Lloyd III and Natalie Lloyd’s commitment to their mission in Haiti was deeply rooted in their faith and desire to make a positive impact. Their loss is felt not only by their immediate family and the communities they served but also by the broader network of supporters who have been touched by their work.
Credit: CNN
