The stampede took place at the entrance to the Laferriere Citadel, also known as Citadelle Henry or Citadelle Laferrière, on Saturday. According to Haiti's prime minister's office, the crush occurred during a tourist activity that brought together many young people, and the site was packed with students and visitors. Jean Henri Petit reported that the incident was worsened by rainfall, and the gathering took place after being advertised on TikTok, though specific details of the promotion are unclear.
The exact number of injured and missing people has not been confirmed, and the identities and ages of the victims remain unknown. Conflicting reports have emerged about the cause of the crush. Initial reports said visitors were crammed against a single entrance and a scuffle broke out between those trying to leave and enter the site.
All competent authorities are fully mobilised and placed on maximum alert to provide, without delay, the necessary assistance, care and support.
There were also reports of rumors that police at the site used too much teargas to break up a fight near the citadel, which caused people to panic and triggered a crush. It is not yet clear whether police used teargas and if it contributed to the stampede, or what exactly triggered the panic, such as specific details of any fight or police action. In the aftermath, the death toll could rise due to the large number of people reported missing, according to Jean Henri Petit.
Culture Minister Emmanuel Menard stated that the fortress will remain closed to visitors until further notice. Menard added that the injured are currently receiving the necessary medical care, and a rescue team is searching for any missing persons. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé expressed his sincere condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of his profound solidarity during this time of mourning and great suffering.
Haiti's prime minister's office confirmed that all competent authorities are fully mobilised and placed on maximum alert to provide, without delay, the necessary assistance, care and support.