Tafari Campbell, a personal chef who had served former President Barack Obama, was tragically found in a pond near the Obamas’ residence on Martha’s Vineyard on Monday morning.
The 43-year-old chef had been paddle boarding on Sunday evening when he disappeared beneath the water’s surface. Despite a massive search and rescue operation, Campbell’s body found until Monday morning.
Massachusetts State Police divers successfully recovered his body from Edgartown Great Pond, close to 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The discovery was made approximately 100 feet from shore at a depth of about eight feet.
Campbell was a native of Martha’s Vineyard and had worked as a chef for the Obamas for several years. He was known for his passion for food and his commitment to using fresh, local ingredients
The Obamas conveyed their heartfelt condolences to Campbell’s family and friends in a statement released on Monday. They fondly remembered him as an integral part of their family, having initially met him as a talented sous chef at the White House. Tafari had remained an important presence in their lives, and they mourned the loss of this truly remarkable man. At the time of his passing, the former first family was not at home.
While the cause of Campbell’s death remains under investigation, authorities have stated that there are no indications of foul play involved.
