PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) – A somber funeral service was held in Haiti’s capital for Judes Montis, a mission director killed by gang members along with an American couple, Davy and Natalie Lloyd, who were working with him. The service was emotionally charged as mourners gathered in a church to pay their respects to the victims.
Montis, 47, who leaves behind a wife and two children, was the local director of the Oklahoma-based Missions in Haiti. Davy and Natalie Lloyd were in their early 20s and part of the mission when they were ambushed by gunmen in a gang-controlled area.
The brother of Judes Montis, Esuaue Montis, was present during the shootings and narrowly escaped from the armed men by receiving a timely phone call that saved him from harm. Despite the tragedy, Missions in Haiti expressed gratitude for all the prayers and support received during this difficult time.
The tragedy has shocked Haiti, a country already struggling with violence and instability. The killings have prompted a strong response from the Haitian National Police, which has vowed to arrest those responsible. However, with gangs controlling a large portion of the capital and limited law enforcement resources, justice for the victims remains uncertain.
The U.S. Embassy is assisting in repatriating the bodies of the Lloyds to the United States, while Missions in Haiti has relocated its staff to a safer location. The families of the victims are mourning the loss of their loved ones, with Ben Baker, a Missouri state representative and father of Natalie Lloyd, receiving condolences from former President Donald Trump.
The tragic incident has underscored the ongoing challenges facing Haiti and the urgent need for increased security measures to protect aid workers and residents in the country.
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