A devastating stampede at a historic Haitian tourist site has left at least 30 people feared dead, with officials warning the death toll may still rise.
The incident occurred on Saturday during an annual Easter gathering at the Laferrière Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the northern town of Milot. Jean Henri Petit, head of civil protection for Haiti's Nord department, confirmed the tragedy, noting the event was packed with students and visitors after being promoted on social media.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé stated the stampede happened "during a tourist event attended by many young people" and that an investigation has been launched. "All relevant authorities have been mobilized to support those affected," he said in an official statement. "The government sends its sincere condolences to the affected families."
Local reports indicate the crush began near the entrance to the site and was worsened by heavy rain. The Laferrière Citadel, also known as Citadelle Henry, was built by revolutionary leader Henri Christophe after Haiti gained independence from France. The fortress took over a decade to construct and served as a crucial defensive network for the new Caribbean nation, now standing as a symbol of Haitian independence.
This tragedy strikes as Haiti continues to grapple with widespread gang violence that has claimed thousands of lives in recent years.