A missionary couple from the U.S. who were attacked and fatally shot by gang members in Haiti are expected to be transported to Missouri this week. The bodies of Davy and Natalie Lloyd, along with local director Jude Montis, were killed in the community of Lizon in northern Port-au-Prince. The Lloyds were leaving a youth group activity at a church when they were ambushed by gang members. Natalie Lloyd is the daughter of Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker, who confirmed that transport had been secured for the bodies to arrive in Missouri on Thursday.
The Lloyds were involved in missionary work focused on helping the children of Haiti through the organization Missions in Haiti. The couple and Montis, a Haitian employee of the organization, were attacked by gang members while leaving a church with some children. Davy Lloyd called his family to report being hit on the head and tied up by the gang members. The group sought refuge in a house connected to the mission but were ultimately shot at by the attackers.
The attack has left the families of the victims grieving, with Montis leaving behind two children. Missions in Haiti expressed their devastation in a Facebook post, stating that they were facing the most difficult time of their lives. Efforts are being made to transport the bodies of the victims back to the U.S. safely, with the children and staff of Missions in Haiti relocated to a secure location. Sen. Josh Hawley has urged President Joe Biden to ensure adequate security measures for the transport of the bodies, citing the dangerous conditions in gang-infested Port-au-Prince.
The families of the victims, along with community leaders and politicians, have expressed their condolences and support for the affected families. Former President Donald Trump offered his condolences and called the situation a “very, very sad moment.” Missouri Senator Hawley has emphasized the need for security personnel to protect the transport of the victims’ bodies to ensure a safe return to the U.S. The families continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones and seek strength during this difficult time. The tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by missionaries and humanitarian workers in volatile regions like Haiti.
