Josh Hawley slammed for claiming US embassy refused to help American couple killed by gang in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI: Missouri Senator Josh Hawley faced backlash after he suggested that the US embassy in Haiti failed to assist three missionaries, resulting in their tragic deaths at the hands of a gang. 

The Republican took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration, writing, "Last night, as my office urged the American Embassy to send help to Natalie and Davy as they were under siege, the Embassy told us it was 'too dangerous' to send police. What a weak country we have become. We cannot protect our own citizens from wanton violence." 

In an earlier post, he paid his condolences, noting, "Erin & I are heartbroken at the loss of Natalie & Davy Lloyd, a wonderful missionary couple from Missouri. Married 2 years ago, they dedicated their lives to sharing the Gospel. They died in the mission field in Haiti last night at the hands of thugs. All of Missouri honors them." 

Many criticized the senator's portrayal of the situation, arguing that diplomatic resources are often limited in high-risk environments like Haiti. Additionally, Hawley's comments prompted inquiries from media outlets and government agencies for further clarification. 

Natalie Lloyd was the daughter of Missouri Rep Ben Baker

David "Davy" Lloyd III and his wife Natalie, daughter of Missouri state Rep Ben Baker, were serving as missionaries in Haiti when they were fatally shot alongside a third person in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, on Thursday, May 23, as per PEOPLE Magazine. Mission director Jude Montis has been named as the third victim. 

The couple, deeply committed to their mission work, were part of Missions in Haiti, Inc, an organization founded by Lloyd's parents.

Rep Baker shared the heartbreaking news through a Facebook post, disclosing, "My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. I’ve never felt this kind of pain. Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed. They went to Heaven together."

He added, "Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well. I have no other words for now."

In a Facebook post, Missions in Haiti, Inc, wrote, "Davy and Natalie and Jude were shot and killed by the gang about 9 o'clock this evening. We all are devastated." 

An earlier post from the organization stated, "This evening when Davy, Natalie and the kids were coming out of Youth at the church they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys. Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left. Davy, Natalie and Jude was in my house at the end of the property using the star link internet to call me. So they are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot. Their lives are in danger."

White House issues statement over tragic deaths of American missionaries in Haiti

The White House also responded to the heinous act to CNN, acknowledging the deaths of the American citizens and extending condolences to their bereaved families.

"We are aware of the reports of the deaths of US citizens in Haiti. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief," conveyed a national security spokesperson for the White House, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the security crisis in Haiti.

They added, "The security situation in Haiti cannot wait. That is why yesterday, President Biden reiterated our commitment to support the expedited deployment of the 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." 

Netizens share their thoughts on Senator Josh Hawley's remark regarding US embassy failing to protect Americans in Haiti

One netizen expressed, "Sad story but Americans leaving US soil can't expect US military protection. Entering a country where the criminals have overtaken the government is deadly dangerous, even for armed law enforcement. Hawley would have complained if US troops had died attempting a rescue."

Another said, "My family lived overseas for decades. We always registered with the embassy or consulate but it was very clear they aren't there to rescue you in times of trouble.  Horrible outcome but the embassy has limited security resources."

"Doing missionary work in a currently lawless country in the middle of a 'civil war' is maybe not the wisest choice .. Hoping Josh Hawley would help you is an even worse choice," opined a person. 

Someone else said, "If Americans choose to keep going to highly unstable and or dangerous countries they have to know they can die and the govt can't keep trying to rescue them! Stay home. Do good from home! When you purposely put yourself in harm's way when you don't need to and bad things happen you have to live with your decisions!"

"Joshy has been talking to MTG and Boebert again. It is a shame they make more sense than him. I wonder if they run too?? LOL!!" wrote one more. 

"The State Department issued a travel warning for Americans not to go there. The reason for such warnings is because the US can't protect everyone, everywhere, all the time in foreign countries. Josh knows this but Haulin' Hawley™️ must criticize the Biden admin to appease the ignorant base. Did you fall for his lies?" pointed out an individual. 

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