At least 30 people are feared dead following a stampede at Haiti's Laferrière Citadel on Saturday. The incident occurred during an annual Easter gathering at the historic fortress in the northern town of Milot.
Jean Henri Petit, head of civil protection for Haiti's Nord department, stated that the death toll could rise. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé confirmed the stampede happened during a tourist event attended by many young people. An investigation has been launched.
The site, a Unesco World Heritage site commemorating the 19th Century fortress's founding, was reportedly crowded with students and visitors. The stampede began near the entrance and was worsened by heavy rain.
The Citadelle Laferrière, built by Henri Christophe, is a symbol of Haitian independence. This tragedy occurs as Haiti faces ongoing challenges with widespread gang violence.