In Haiti, 30 people were killed in a stampede at a popular tourist site during an annual Orthodox Easter gathering. Officials said the incident occurred at the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in the northern town of Milot yesterday.
The stampede began near the entrance to the site and was worsened by heavy rain. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise further as rescue and relief operations continue.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé extended condolences to the families of the victims and confirmed that an investigation has been launched, with all relevant authorities mobilised to assist those affected.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé said the incident occurred “during a tourist event attended by many young people” at the site, in the northern town of Milot. He said an investigation had been launched and “all relevant authorities” mobilised to support those affected.
“The government sends its sincere condolences to the affected families,” Fils-Aimé said in a statement. The site had been packed with students and visitors after the event – commemorating the 19th Century fortress’s founding – was advertised on social media, local media report, citing officials.