Stampede at Haiti Tourist Attraction: At Least 30, Including Students, Dead

Crowds Swarm Narrow Gateway on Rainy Day

A deadly stampede occurred at a famous historic site in Haiti, a Caribbean nation, leaving at least 30 people dead. The site had recently gained popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok, attracting a surge of tourists.

According to international media reports, including AFP, on the previous day at Citadel La Perriere, a fortress in the northern highlands of Haiti, a large-scale stampede took place. The death toll stands at more than 30, with many of the victims reported to be students and tourists.

Crowds gather at Citadel La Ferriere. Photo by Yonhap News

The accident reportedly occurred when crowds trying to exit through a narrow gateway became entangled with visitors attempting to enter. It was raining outside at the time, and the slippery road conditions, combined with people rushing to take shelter from the rain in a confined space, led to an even greater number of casualties.

According to local media, an annual event was being held at Citadel La Perriere that day. Northern Haiti disaster authorities stated, "The accident happened as a large number of students and visitors gathered for an annual event at the historic site. The death toll is estimated at a minimum of 30, but it could rise further."

Authorities said the injured have been transported to hospitals for treatment, while rescue teams are searching for and attempting to rescue those still missing. The fortress where the accident took place will remain closed until further notice.

Citadel La Perriere is a fortress built in the early 19th century in northern Haiti. Henri Christophe, who led the army during the Haitian Revolution against France and later proclaimed himself king, commissioned its construction. The citadel is known as the largest fortress in South America and has recently emerged as a tourist attraction as its profile has risen through promotions on social media platforms such as TikTok.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.