Family members of Chad Joseph, a 26-year-old Trinidadian, are seeking proof following the alleged U.S. military strike that resulted in his death. The strike occurred on October 16, 2025, in the Caribbean. President Donald Trump claimed these individuals were involved in drug trafficking, but the family is demanding evidence to support this assertion.
Family Demands Evidence
Relatives assert that Chad Joseph was a fisherman, not a drug trafficker. His cousin, Afisha Clement, expressed deep sorrow, stating that the action taken by Trump has devastated their family. She questioned the validity of the narcotics claims, saying, “If you say a boat has narcotics on it, where is the narcotics? We want evidence, we want proof.”
The Victims of the Strike
Chad’s great-uncle, Cecil McClean, labeled the military action as a “perfect murder.” He also criticized the lack of concrete proof regarding the trafficking allegations. Family members indicated that Joseph had traveled to Venezuela for work six months prior to the incident.
Government Response
Joseph’s mother, Lenore Burnley, reported that she had not received any communication from the Trinidad and Tobago government about her son’s demise. She found out through social media that he was reported among the casualties of the strike, saying, “I put everything in God’s hands.”
U.S. Military Actions
Since the onset of military operations, at least 27 fatalities have been reported. Victims are purported to include both Venezuelans and Colombians, as raised by Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The U.S. government has conducted multiple attacks on boats it claims are involved in drug trafficking, but details on the individuals involved and the legitimacy of the actions remain sparse.
Legal and Political Concerns
Legal experts and some U.S. lawmakers have raised questions regarding the legality of these military actions. They are calling for clarity on why the military, rather than the Coast Guard, is undertaking these operations. The Trump administration defends its stance as part of a broader fight against “Venezuelan narcoterrorists.”
International Reactions
Venezuela has responded by appealing to the United Nations Security Council, claiming that the U.S. strikes are illegal. The situation underscores ongoing tensions in the region and raises significant humanitarian concerns.
- Chad Joseph: 26-year-old fisherman killed in U.S. military strike.
- Date of strike: October 16, 2025.
- Number of fatalities: At least 27.
- Victims identified: Primarily Trinidadians, Venezuelans, and Colombians.
The call for proof in this alleged drug trafficking case reflects broader issues of accountability and transparency in military operations. The Joseph family continues to demand justice and clarity in the wake of this tragic event.
