At Least 30 Dead in Stampede Following Crowd Surge at Haiti’s Citadelle Laferrière

At least 30 people have died and dozens were injured in a stampede that broke out amid a crowd surge at Citadelle Laferrière in Haiti. The stampede began after crowd control was lost, resulting in an overwhelming number of people gathering at the entrance gate. The government has announced that it is investigating the incident and is providing necessary assistance and medical treatment to the victims.

Local media reported that the government expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has launched an inquiry. According to a statement released by government officials on Facebook, the tragedy occurred on Saturday during a “tourist activity” at the 19th-century fortress listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Milot.

The event, which involved many young participants, suddenly escalated into chaos after crowd control was lost. Jean Henry Petit, head of Haiti’s Northern Civil Protection Department, confirmed to local newspapers that at least 30 deaths have been verified initially. He also indicated that many people remain missing, suggesting the death toll could rise further.

Dozens of injured individuals have been admitted to nearby hospitals, although the exact number of casualties has not been disclosed. Early reports indicate that tourists were gathered in excessive numbers at the entrance gate. During this time, pushing occurred between groups attempting to enter and exit the fortress, leading to the loss of control over the situation and causing the stampede. The government has urged citizens to remain calm and vigilant while the investigation continues.