In brief
In a shocking act of violence, armed assailants targeted a gathering of reporters at Haiti's largest public hospital in Port-au-Prince, resulting in the deaths of two journalists and a police officer. The attack has sent tremors through a nation already grappling with overwhelming gang violence.
At least three individuals, including two journalists and a police officer, were killed when gunmen opened fire on reporters assembled for the reopening of the State University of Haiti Hospital, commonly referred to as the General Hospital, on Tuesday morning. Eyewitness accounts and statements from officials confirm the tragic incident, with at least seven others reported injured.The chaos unfolded as reporters, including Jephte Bazil from the online news outlet Machann Zen Haïti, were preparing to cover the hospital's reopening. Bazil recounted the harrowing experience: “I’m still in shock — they shot at us. Some went down. They were hit by the bullets.” As he spoke, additional gunfire could be heard in the background, demonstrating the chaotic situation unfolding in the area.Responsibility for the attack has been claimed by a local gang leader affiliated with the Viv Ansanm (Living Together) gang coalition, who posted a video online announcing their involvement. The Prime Minister's office condemned the shooting as a “heinous act” that strikes at the very heart of a society devoted to health and life.The Health Ministry has not released any immediate statements regarding the incident, and police spokespeople appear to lack any further details about the assault. The aftermath of the attack saw bloodied floors and bodies strewn about, as shown in video footage circulated on social media.As Haiti continues to grapple with rampant gang violence and civil unrest, this incident marks another devastating chapter in the country's ongoing struggle for safety and order.
