Credited from: INDIATIMES
At least 30 people were killed in a stampede at Citadelle Laferriere in northern Haiti during an annual celebration, according to Reuters and IndiaTimes. The event attracted large crowds, including many young visitors, and was significantly promoted on social media.
Jean Henri Petit, head of Civil Protection for Haiti's Nord Department, noted that the stampede occurred near the entrance of the fortress and was worsened by sudden rainfall that day. He cautioned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue and many remain unaccounted for, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé expressed his condolences to the families affected and confirmed that an investigation has been initiated to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. He stated, "The government sends its sincere condolences to the affected families," as reported by CBS News and South China Morning Post.
The Citadelle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Haitian independence, has been closed to visitors until further notice following the disaster. Several dozen individuals were also reported injured, with immediate medical assistance being provided, as covered by Reuters and IndiaTimes.