At Least 30 Dead in Stampede at Haiti's Historic Citadelle Laferrière

A stampede at the Citadelle Laferrière near Milot, Haiti on Saturday, April 11 killed at least 30 people and injured dozens more, according to Haiti's Culture Minister.

The historic mountaintop fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Haitian independence — was packed with students and visitors who had gathered after a social media call by TikTokers promoting a mass visit.

What Happened

Preliminary investigations point to severe overcrowding combined with sudden stormy weather. As rain hit, visitors rushed for cover, creating a crush at the fortress entrance as some pushed to exit while others pressed to enter.

Aftermath

Haiti's Culture Ministry fired two government officials over the incident, and nine suspects have been arrested, including five police officers and two employees from the Institute for the Preservation of National Heritage.

CARICOM issued a statement mourning the "tragic deaths" and expressing solidarity with the Haitian people. Around 30 patients remained hospitalized as of April 15.

The Citadelle Laferrière, built in the early 19th century by Henri Christophe, is the largest fortress in the Americas and one of Haiti's most visited landmarks.