A stampede at the Laferrière Citadel in northern Haiti on Saturday resulted in at least 30 deaths, with the potential for the number to rise.
Panic at the Citadel Entrance
The incident occurred at the entrance to the Laferrière Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cause of the panic remains unknown, and heavy rainfall exacerbated the situation.
Citadel Filled with Visitors
Jean Genri Petit, head of civil defense for Haiti’s Northern Department, stated that the Citadel was crowded with students and tourists on Saturday. They had gathered for the annual commemoration of the site’s inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Laferrière Citadel: A National Landmark
The Laferrière Citadel, a fortress dating back to the early 19th century, is one of Haiti’s most popular tourist attractions and a recognizable national symbol.
Haiti’s History of Disasters
Haiti has experienced a series of tragic disasters in recent years, including widespread gang violence. In 2024, an explosion at a fuel depot killed 24 people. Similar incidents in 2021 resulted in 90 and approximately 2,000 deaths, respectively, alongside a devastating earthquake.
