Haiti's Citadelle Laferriere Stampede Results in 30 Deaths Amid Annual Celebration
A tragic stampede at Haiti's Citadelle Laferriere has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 individuals, according to local authorities. The incident occurred during an annual celebration at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was packed with students and visitors. The stampede took place at the entrance of the fortress, exacerbated by rain, as reported by Jean Henri Petit, head of Civil Protection for Haiti’s Nord Department. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime expressed condolences to the bereaved families, highlighting the presence of many young attendees. Rescue operations are ongoing, with injured individuals receiving medical care and search efforts for missing persons continuing. The event adds to Haiti's recent history of disasters, including gang violence and previous catastrophic incidents.