In a shocking incident on Tuesday morning, gunmen opened fire at the reopening of Haiti's largest public hospital, leading to the deaths of two journalists and a police officer, while injuring several others.
Gun Violence Erupts at Haiti's Largest Hospital, Leaving Three Dead
Gun Violence Erupts at Haiti's Largest Hospital, Leaving Three Dead
A drastic attack during a hospital reopening event raises questions on safety in Port-au-Prince.
The chaos unfolded during a highly anticipated event at the State University of Haiti Hospital, also known as the General Hospital, located in downtown Port-au-Prince. Eyewitnesses and local authorities reported that armed men targeted reporters and attendees, resulting in a significant loss of life and injuries.
Video recordings circulating on social media exhibit the harrowing scene, with bloodstains marking the floors and bodies lying motionless, as sounds of gunfire echoed in the background. The notorious gang leader, Johnson (Izo) André of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, claimed responsibility for the brazen attack via social media, intensifying fears in a city already grappling with escalating gang violence.
Haitian officials condemned the act, with a statement from the prime minister's office labeling it “a heinous act” that threatens the core values of health and life within society. Jephte Bazil, a journalist present at the scene, expressed his disbelief and fear as he recounted the harrowing experience in real-time to reporters from a nearby hospital, where the wounded were being treated.
As calls for help grow louder amid rampant insecurity, this tragic incident underscores the dire situation in Haiti, as community safety continues to deteriorate against the backdrop of rampant gang violence and political instability.
In the absence of immediate official comments, the tragic event raises pressing questions regarding the government's ability to protect its citizens and restore order in the increasingly dangerous streets of Port-au-Prince.
Video recordings circulating on social media exhibit the harrowing scene, with bloodstains marking the floors and bodies lying motionless, as sounds of gunfire echoed in the background. The notorious gang leader, Johnson (Izo) André of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, claimed responsibility for the brazen attack via social media, intensifying fears in a city already grappling with escalating gang violence.
Haitian officials condemned the act, with a statement from the prime minister's office labeling it “a heinous act” that threatens the core values of health and life within society. Jephte Bazil, a journalist present at the scene, expressed his disbelief and fear as he recounted the harrowing experience in real-time to reporters from a nearby hospital, where the wounded were being treated.
As calls for help grow louder amid rampant insecurity, this tragic incident underscores the dire situation in Haiti, as community safety continues to deteriorate against the backdrop of rampant gang violence and political instability.
In the absence of immediate official comments, the tragic event raises pressing questions regarding the government's ability to protect its citizens and restore order in the increasingly dangerous streets of Port-au-Prince.
