At least 30 people were killed and dozens injured in a stampede at the Citadelle Laferrière, a mountaintop fortress near Cap-Haïtien in northern Haiti.
The tragedy occurred on Saturday during traditional festivities at the historic site.
Municipal authorities said the incident resulted in “numerous cases of asphyxiation, trampling and loss of consciousness.” Dozens were rushed to hospitals, while many remain missing.
Local officials explained that “a situation of severe overcrowding, linked in particular to deficiencies in crowd management measures, triggered a stampede.”
The Haitian National Police confirmed it has opened an investigation to determine the exact cause. Autopsies began on Sunday, while 30 victims remained hospitalized.
Police appealed for cooperation and cautioned against spreading rumors. The official death toll was later revised to 25 fatalities, though municipal authorities initially reported 30.
Families Mourn Victims
Haiti’s government offered condolences to grieving families. Some victims’ bodies remained at the fortress on Sunday.
Donaldson Jean, who lost his sister, recounted her excitement about joining a school trip. He sobbed after carrying her body, covered with a white tarp.
“She studied diligently to earn her place on the trip. Now she is gone,” Jean said.
The Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Haiti’s most visited landmarks.
According to Al Jazeera, the fortress has long symbolized Haitian independence, making the incident even more painful for a nation already grappling with economic and political instability.
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It is quite saddening for a life to be lost in such a tragic way, sincerely hope the affected families somehow find peace in these trying moments. Speedy recovery to those hospitalised.
On a very serious tone, why wasn’t adequate personnel put in place to manage crowding? Especially at such strategic times. The aforementioned investigation, I hope it works, and can be used as guide or study tactics to avoid it happening again.