In brief
A catastrophic stampede at Citadelle Laferrière in Haiti claimed the lives of at least 30 individuals and left many injured during an Easter gathering attracting a large number of visitors. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé announced an investigation into the incident, advising that the death toll may rise. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage monument, was packed with attendees when the stampede erupted, exacerbated by sudden downpours.
At least 30 people are feared to have been killed in a stampede at a popular tourist site in Haiti on Saturday.
The incident took place during an annual Easter gathering at the Laferrière Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, according to Jean Henri Petit, head of civil protection for Haiti's Nord department, who warned that the death toll could yet rise.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé stated that the incident occurred 'during a tourist event attended by many young people' at the site located in the northern town of Milot.
He confirmed that an investigation had been launched and that 'all relevant authorities' were mobilized to support those affected.
'The government sends its sincere condolences to the affected families,' Fils-Aimé stated.
The site had been packed with students and visitors after the event, commemorating the 19th Century fortress's founding, was advertised on social media, as reported by local media and officials.
The stampede reportedly started near the entrance to the site and was worsened by heavy rain.
Haiti's Le Nouvelliste newspaper was the first to report the death toll, citing Petit, although the government statement did not specify how many had died.
Citadelle Laferrière, also known as Citadelle Henry, was built by revolutionary Henri Christophe shortly after Haiti gained independence from France. The stronghold took more than a decade to construct and has become a symbol of Haitian independence, crucial for protecting the newly liberated nation against attacks.
This incident comes as Haiti continues to grapple with widespread gang violence that has resulted in thousands of fatalities.
