Dozens Killed in Haiti Stampede, Government Declares Days of Mourning

The government of Haiti has declared three days of national mourning following a deadly stampede that claimed the lives of at least 25 people at a historic tourist site.

The tragedy occurred during an annual celebration at the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracted large crowds of students and visitors. Authorities say the incident happened amid severe overcrowding at the entrance to the fortress, leading to panic and a fatal crush.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé announced that the mourning period will begin on Tuesday, with flags expected to fly at half-mast across the country. He also confirmed that the government will cover funeral expenses for the victims.

Initial reports suggested the death toll could be as high as 30, but officials later revised the figure to 25 after further verification by civil protection authorities.

Eyewitness accounts and early investigations indicate that overcrowding, limited access points, and confusion at the venue contributed to the disaster. Some reports also suggest that panic may have been worsened by environmental factors such as rain and crowd control measures, triggering a rush that left many victims suffocated or trampled.

Dozens of people were injured in the incident, with several still receiving treatment in hospitals. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the stampede, while rescue teams continue to account for missing persons.

The incident has plunged the nation into grief, adding to the challenges facing Haiti, which has in recent years grappled with political instability, economic hardship, and recurring disasters.