MO State Rep. Ben Baker loses daughter, son-in-law to gang violence in Haiti
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NEOSHO, Mo. — Missouri State Representative Ben Baker, who represents Newton County’s 160th District, made the sad announcement overnight that one of his daughters and his son-in-law were murdered.
Davy and Natalie Lloyd were missionaries in Haiti.
Last night two local gangs attacked one of their missions. Representative Baker posted to Facebook early Friday morning saying his heart is broken into a thousand pieces and that he’s never felt this kind of pain.
The Lloyd family runs the Missions in Haiti, Inc., the Christian organization is based out of Claremore, Oklahoma. And in a chilling post on social media, the Lloyd family described a first attack where their son was tied up and beaten.
They said there was a second attack where Natalie and Davy were shot and killed. Another member of their group was also killed. Natalie was just 20 years old.
Representative Baker says this is a difficult time for their family and they are asking the public to respect their privacy in this time of mourning. A gofundme has been established to assist with the Lloyd’s funeral expenses here.
Haiti’s main airport in Port-au-Prince just reopened earlier this week after gang violence forced authorities to close it three months ago. The country has been in chaos for more than a year now. Many have been unable to evacuate.
Humanitarian aid and supplies haven’t been available for months. According to the Associated Press, gangs control about 80-percent of the capital in Haiti.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the two U.S. citizens killed by gangs in Haiti. On behalf of the President, our Ambassador in Haiti is in touch with the families who we know are experiencing unimaginable grief. Our Embassy is ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance.
Unfortunately, this serves as a reminder that the security situation in Haiti cannot wait – too many innocent lives are being lost. During Kenyan President Ruto’s visit yesterday, President Biden reiterated the United States’ commitment to support the expedited deployment of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to bolster the Haitian National Police’s capabilities to protect civilians, restore the rule of law, and pave the way to democratic governance. Working with Congress, we are supporting this MSS mission and other Haitian-led efforts.
Matthew Miller, State Department Spokesperson
More than 1,500 have been killed so far this year according to the United Nations.
Gangs have directed their attacks on previously peaceful communities, leaving thousands homeless.
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