The tranquility of Martha’s Vineyard was shattered this week when tragedy struck the shores of Edgartown Great Pond. Tafari Campbell, 45, a personal chef for former President Barack Obama, tragically drowned while paddleboarding near the Obama family’s estate. A man known for his culinary expertise and celebrated by his employers as a “creative and passionate” individual, Campbell’s death has led to multiple unanswered questions.
The report from the Massachusetts State Police discloses that Campbell was seen struggling in the water, subsequently submerging, and unfortunately, never resurfacing. His body was recovered around 10 a.m. on Monday, about 100 feet from the shore and in 8 feet of water, following an exhaustive search that involved door-to-door inquiries, divers, and sonar scanning equipment. Notably, Campbell was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
Obama’s chef who drowned while paddleboarding in a 8 ft deep pond by Obama’s home was a decent swimmer. This is from his IG: pic.twitter.com/4MjrHZ866H
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) July 25, 2023
“In the years that followed, we got to know him as a warm, fun, extraordinarily kind person who made all of our lives a little brighter,” the Obamas said in a statement. “We asked Tafari to stay with us, and he generously agreed. He’s been part of our lives ever since, and our hearts are broken that he’s gone.”
Nevertheless, one cannot help but question whether adequate safety protocols were in place around Obama’s property, particularly given its proximity to open water. Being proactive in safety matters is a crucial aspect of home management, whether you’re a former president or an everyday citizen.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, a glaring question is the visibility and enforcement of life jacket regulations while participating in water sports in such areas. Water safety must be considered, especially in a coastal community like Martha’s Vineyard.
Campbell leaves behind his wife, Sherise, and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin. As a community mourns the untimely loss of a “truly wonderful man,” this incident is a stark reminder of the importance of water safety and the vital role of community response and support during such tragic times.
No matter what the government or media reports about Obama's chef who died on his property – I won't believe a word of it.
Why would they start telling the truth now?
— Catturd ™ (@catturd2) July 25, 2023
