At Least 30 Killed in Crush at Historic Fortress in Northern Haiti

At least 30 people died and dozens were injured in a crush at Citadelle Laferrière, a historic fortress in northern Haiti, on Saturday. The site, built shortly after Haiti's independence from France in the 19th century, was packed with students and visitors. Jean Henri Petit, head of civil protection for the Nord department, said the death toll could rise due to people reported missing.

The incident took place at the mountaintop fortress, also known as Citadelle Henry, which is a popular tourist spot and was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1982. Initial reports indicated visitors were crammed against a single entrance, leading to a scuffle between those trying to enter and leave. Local media reported the gathering was advertised on TikTok.

Incident Details Reports also mentioned rumors that police used tear gas to break up a fight near the citadel, causing panic and the crush.

Several dozen injured people were taken to hospitals. The Guardian reported that many of the victims were young. " >— Emmanuel Menard, Haiti's culture minister (The Guardian) Emmanuel Menard, Haiti's culture minister, confirmed 30 deaths and stated the fortress would remain closed to visitors until further notice.

Haiti's prime minister's office expressed sadness over the incident, which occurred during a tourist activity involving many young people.

Government Response The government statement urged citizens to remain calm and cautious while investigating.

It added that all competent authorities were mobilized to provide assistance, care, and support. The New York Times described the site as one of Haiti's defining symbols. The crush occurred amid ongoing challenges in Haiti, including violence by gangs and a crackdown by security forces.

The country, the poorest in the western hemisphere, has faced recent fuel price increases announced on April 2, with diesel up 37% and gasoline up 29% due to rising oil prices from the conflict in Iran.

Broader Context These price surges have disrupted supply chains, doubled transportation costs, and affected undernourished populations.

Haiti has experienced multiple disasters in recent years, including a 2024 fuel tank explosion that killed 24 people, a 2021 fuel tank blast that killed 90, and a 2021 earthquake that killed about 2,000.