Khaberni - The authorities reported that 30 people lost their lives yesterday, Saturday, in a stampede incident that occurred in the countryside of northern Haiti, warning that the death toll may rise.
Jean Henri Petit, the director of civil protection in North Haiti, said that the stampede occurred at Laferrière Castle, a fortress dating back to the early 19th century that was built shortly after Haiti gained independence from France.
Petit added that the castle, which is one of the most famous tourist landmarks in Haiti, was crowded on Saturday with students and visitors who came to participate in the annual celebration of this site listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Prime Minister Alex Didier Fils-Aime said in a statement that he offers his sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and the injured, affirming his deep solidarity with them during this sorrowful time.
He added that many young people were present at the castle celebrations, although the identity of the deceased has not yet been known.
The Prime Minister's statement did not mention an estimated number of deaths.
Petit stated that the stampede occurred at the entrance of the site, adding that the rain exacerbated the disaster.
