The family of Chad Joseph, a Las Cuevas resident allegedly killed in a US missile strike on a boat suspected of drug trafficking, is demanding accountability and an end to what they describe as the killing of innocent people in Caribbean waters. Speaking after a nine-night memorial service at St Michael’s RC Church on October 22, Lynette Burnley, Joseph’s aunt, addressed US President Donald Trump directly, urging him to halt such actions. “I just want to tell him to stop it,” Burnley said. “He’s killing innocent people and destroying families. He wouldn’t want this to happen to his family, so he needs to stop.”
The October 14 strike reportedly claimed six lives, including Joseph and another Trinidadian, Samaroo. Burnley condemned the attack as an extrajudicial killing, emphasizing that the fishermen in the area are now too fearful to venture out to sea. She also criticized the Prime Minister’s recent remarks advocating violent measures against drug traffickers, arguing that such actions are inhumane and unjust. “They’re human beings. They should be warned, held accountable, and charged if necessary, but not killed,” she said.
Burnley expressed skepticism about the authorities treating the incident as a missing-persons case, questioning how they could be certain no Trinidadians were killed. Despite the overwhelming grief, she clings to hope that Joseph might still be alive. “Every day brings more pain, but I can’t believe he’s gone. I still believe he’s out there, and someone could find him,” she said.
Joseph’s grandmother, Christine Clement, echoed this sentiment, describing the family’s sorrow and their refusal to file a missing person’s report as advised by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander. She vehemently denied allegations that Joseph was involved in drug trafficking, calling them “a big lie.” Burnley added that Joseph frequently traveled between Trinidad and Venezuela for work, assisting with farming and land maintenance.
The family first learned of Joseph’s alleged death through social media, where a video of the destroyed boat circulated. During the memorial service, Father Kenneth Assing acknowledged the tragic and unexpected nature of Joseph’s death, offering comfort to the grieving family and community. “This burden of tragic death is not easy. It will weigh heavily on your hearts and minds,” he said, reminding attendees of God’s grace and mercy.