The body of Tafari Campbell, a personal chef for former President Barack Obama, was found in a pond near the Obamas’ home on Martha’s Vineyard on Monday morning.
Campbell, 43, had been paddle boarding on Sunday evening when he disappeared under the water. A massive search and rescue effort was launched, but Campbell was not found until Monday morning.
His body was recovered from Edgartown Great Pond by Massachusetts State Police divers shortly before 10 a.m. eastern time.
The recovery was made approximately 100 feet from shore at a depth of about eight feet, they said.
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 released a statement on Monday expressing their condolences to Campbell’s family and friends.
“Tafari was a beloved part of our family. When we first met him, he was a talented sous chef at the White House.
He’s been part of our lives ever since, and our hearts are broken that he’s gone.