Former president of the United States, Barack Obama, experienced a tragic incident at his Martha's Vineyard estate where his personal chef, 45-year-old Tafari Campbell, drowned while paddleboarding on a pond. The unfortunate event occurred outside the Obamas' property on Edgartown Great Pond. Campbell had previously served as the sous chef in the White House kitchen during Barack Obama's presidency and was later hired as his personal staff. Emergency responders were dispatched to the 30-acre estate after reports of a possible drowning, and rescue efforts involving divers, Coast Guard helicopters, and various agencies' resources were launched. Campbell's body was found using sonar scanners deployed from a boat. The Obamas expressed their sorrow, describing Campbell as a beloved part of their family. They admired his talent, warmth, and kindness and had asked him to stay with them after their time at the White House. Campbell leaves behind his wife Sherise and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin. The former president and his family were not present at the estate during the incident. Campbell was also known for brewing beer using honey from bees tended by Michelle Obama on the South Lawn during his time in the White House.
Another person who had been paddleboarding on the pond when Campbell drowned said they saw him struggling in the water, then submerging without resurfacing.
He wore all black then, and did not have a lifejacket on.
His board and hat were discovered shortly after search crews arrived.
During his time in the White House, Campbell was known for brewing a beer using honey from bees Michelle Obama tended on the South Lawn, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.