Two Men Never Made It Home After Deadly U.S. Boat Strikes and Now the Government Wants Their Lawsuit Thrown Out

Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo were traveling back to Trinidad from Venezuela when a U.S. military strike ended their journey on October 14, 2025.

Joseph, 26, and Samaroo, 41, were among six people killed after a missile struck their vessel during Operation Southern Spear. The campaign targets suspected drug trafficking boats operating across regional waters.

Three children were left behind after Joseph's death. Samaroo had been returning home to help care for his sick mother.

Relatives argue neither man was involved in drug trafficking. As reported by The Center Square, their account states the two Trinidadians were simply trying to return to Trinidad when the strike unfolded.

Friday brought a new challenge for those claims. The Justice Department asked a judge to dismiss the case before the underlying accusations are examined.

Government attorneys argue the matter was filed in the wrong venue. They also contend the plaintiffs were not formally appointed to represent the estates and relied on the wrong statute.

Nothing in the filing attempts to justify the strike itself. Arguments presented to the judge focus entirely on procedural matters.

Roughly 200 people have been killed in 62 strikes since the campaign began in September 2025, according to figures released by U.S. Southern Command.

People close to Joseph and Samaroo reject allegations that the two Trinidadians were involved in narcotics trafficking. Their legal team maintains both men worked as laborers and fishermen and were simply trying to make their way back to Trinidad.

Amnesty International USA has condemned the military campaign and labeled the attacks unlawful killings. Trump administration officials continue to defend the strikes as part of a broader effort against narcoterrorist networks.

October 2027 remains the key date for the families. Court documents indicate the statute of limitations remains open until then, leaving another path available if procedural hurdles can be cleared.

The judge has not yet ruled on the government's request.