Autopsy report released after Obama's personal chef found dead in river

23 August 2023 , 21:59

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Tafari Campbell, 43, worked in the White House while Obama was president before moving with them after Obama's term ended (Image: White House)

Autopsy results into the death of Barack Obama's personal chef have been released after his surprise death on Martha's Vineyard in July.

An official autopsy report for Tafari Campbell, 45, determined that his death was ruled an "accidental drowning" after he vanished on July 23 while paddleboarding in the waters of Edgartown Great Pond on the Massachusetts island.

Campbell, a Virginia native, was working as the Obamas' personal chef at their Martha's Vineyard property. His disappearance sparked an extensive search before his body was recovered the next day. Massachusetts State Police said Barack and Michelle Obama were not present at the home at the time of the accident.

Timothy McGuirk, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, confirmed the man's death was ruled an "accident" with no foul play involved. Campbell's injuries were consistent with drowning, with no other signs of violence.

A view of Obama's house from Turkeyland Cove where Campbell worked as the Obama's personal chef (Realtor.com)

Another paddleboarder was there to witness Campbell go under. They said that Campbell was struggling to stay above water, reports Fox News. Campbell had appeared on the White House website where he was filmed preparing food in the kitchen.

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The Obamas released a joint statement on July 24 detailing how they had asked Campbell to stay with them after leaving the White House and how their "hearts are broken." They added: "Tafari was a beloved part of our family.

The Obamas released a joint statement on July 24 detailing how they had asked Campbell to stay with them after leaving the White House (AFP via Getty Images)

"When we first met him, he was a talented sous chef at the White House – creative and passionate about food, and its ability to bring people together. 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."

Campbell is survived by his wife, Sherise Campbell, and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin. "My heart is broken. My life and our family’s life is forever changed," Sherise Campbell posted on Instagram, along with a photo of her husband, after his death. "Please pray for me and our families as I deal with the loss of my husband."

Barack Obama's family bought the Martha's Vineyard home in 2019 for $11.75million. The area is known for its picturesque beauty and recreational activities.

Abigail O'Leary