The authorities of the state of Massachusetts (USA) have found this Monday the lifeless body of the personal cook of former US President Barack Obama (2009 – 2017), inside a lake on the island of Martha's Vineyard.

Local police have found the body of Tafari Campbell, who worked for the Obamas since they were in the White House, around 10 am this Monday, according to authorities.

Campbell, 43, drowned in a lake near the Obama residence on the exclusive island of Martha's Vineyard, police have said, but neither the former president nor his family were in the area at the time of the incident.

The former president and his wife, Michelle Obama, have said in a statement that Tafari was “part of his family” and recalled that they met him when he worked in the White House kitchen.

“We got to know him as a warm, funny and extraordinarily kind person who made our lives that little bit warmer,” the couple said.

Authorities began rescue activities Sunday night after being alerted that a person who was stand-up paddle boarding was missing.