PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – A Missouri state representative is mourning the tragic loss of his daughter and son-in-law, both of whom were serving as missionaries in Haiti when they fell victim to a gang-related attack on Monday, family members have confirmed. The couple, recently married in 2022, were ambushed and fatally shot along with a third, as yet unidentified, individual.

David and Natalie Lloyd were working with the nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc., an organization founded by David’s parents in 2000, which aims to improve the lives of Haitian communities through various programs. The harrowing news of their deaths was shared on the organization’s social media, expressing the deep devastation felt by their loved ones and colleagues.

The attack occurred as the couple was leaving a church youth event. According to an earlier post by the missionary organization, they were suddenly besieged by three trucks filled with armed gang members. David Lloyd was taken to his house, where he was tied up and beaten.

The emotional weight of the tragedy was palpable in the Facebook post by Natalie Lloyd’s father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker. In a heartfelt message, he revealed the extent of his sorrow and sought prayers for both the Baker and Lloyd families as they grappled with the overwhelming loss.

The White House, responding to the incident, expressed condolences to the families of the American victims. A national security spokesperson acknowledged the reports of the U.S. citizens’ deaths and underscored President Biden’s commitment to addressing the crisis in Haiti. 

The spokesperson reiterated plans to support the Haitian National Police through the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission, emphasizing the urgency of improving civilian protection and the restoration of law and order in the country.