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Seven detained in connection with Haiti stampede tragedy
Haitian authorities have taken seven individuals into custody following a fatal crowd surge at the historic Laferrière Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Haiti, which claimed 25 lives, police confirmed.
Incident details and revised death toll
The stampede occurred on Saturday during an unsanctioned cultural event at the 19th-century fortress. Initial reports indicated 30 fatalities, but officials later revised the figure to 25. The site, located near the town of Milot, attracts tourists for its historical significance as a symbol of Haitian independence.
Arrests and ongoing investigation
Among those arrested are five local police officers and two employees of the National Heritage Preservation Institute (ISPAN), the agency responsible for maintaining Haiti's landmark sites. All seven remain in custody as legal proceedings advance, according to a police statement.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé announced a three-day national mourning period starting Tuesday, describing the incident as occurring during a youth-focused event at the citadel.
Conflicting accounts and site conditions
Milot Mayor Wesner Joseph told Magik9 radio that his administration had no prior knowledge of the event, which was reportedly organized by a local DJ who promoted it on TikTok. Jean-Hérold Pérard, the site's engineer and former ISPAN director, provided further details to the Haitian Times.
"One of the two entrances was closed so security could collect fees from visitors. As rain began, people tried to force their way in. Gunshots were fired, and tear gas was deployed-though it's unclear by whom. The crowd surged, and some died from asphyxiation after the tear gas was used."
Jean-Hérold Pérard, former ISPAN director
Historical significance of the site
Constructed over more than a decade by revolutionary leader Henri Christophe following Haiti's independence from France, the Citadelle Laferrière-also known as Citadelle Henry-served as a key defensive stronghold. Today, it stands as a national emblem of sovereignty and resilience.
Broader context of violence in Haiti
The tragedy unfolds amid escalating gang violence across Haiti, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and deepened the country's humanitarian crisis.
