A tragic fuel tanker explosion in southern Haiti on Saturday, September 14, claimed the lives of at least 15 people and left 40 others seriously injured.
The accident occurred when a gasoline-laden tanker flipped and exploded in the port city of Miragoâne.
Among the injured, one victim was airlifted by a UN helicopter for urgent medical care. Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille visited the scene of the explosion and described the devastation, noting the severe burns and injuries suffered by many. He emphasized that numerous victims had been evacuated to Les Cayes for treatment, while others were taken to Saint Boniface Hospital.
Local reports suggest the explosion happened as residents attempted to collect fuel from the overturned tanker, a grim reflection of Haiti’s ongoing fuel crisis.
The country of 12 million people has been grappling with severe fuel shortages, exacerbated by gang violence that disrupts the importation of essential goods.
