At least 30 people were killed on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Citadelle Henry, in the heights of Bonnet-à-l’Évêque, following a stampede during unusually large crowds attending traditional festivities at the historic site.
The information was confirmed by Civil Protection official Jean Henry Petit, who stated that the toll remains provisional and could rise due to many people still reported missing. Dozens of injured individuals are currently being treated in nearby hospitals.
According to initial reports, attendance far exceeded expectations, creating overwhelming crowd pressure. Major organizational failures contributed to the tragedy, including the use of a single प्रवेश point for both entry and exit, leading to severe congestion.
Tensions quickly escalated between people trying to leave and others attempting to enter, triggering panic and a massive stampede. Victims suffered from suffocation, trampling, and loss of consciousness.
The situation worsened due to traffic accidents involving vehicles transporting victims to hospitals, increasing the death toll and complicating rescue efforts.
Authorities have deployed emergency teams and called for reinforcements. Preliminary findings point to poor crowd management, lack of adequate exits, and insufficient planning.
An investigation is expected to determine responsibility for the disaster.
