Tragic Sea Fire Claims Lives of Over 40 Haitian Migrants

At least 40 Haitian migrants were killed when gasoline-filled drums on their boat caught fire and exploded. They had lit candles using matches as part of a ritual for safe passage to Turks and Caicos islands, according to authorities.

At least 40 Haitian migrants lost their lives after gasoline-filled drums on their boat ignited and exploded, as reported by the Miami Herald on Friday and confirmed by Haitian authorities.

The tragic incident occurred when the migrants lit candles with matches during a ritual intended to ensure a safe journey to the Turks and Caicos islands, said Jean-Henry Petit, who heads the civil protection office in northern Haiti.

The disastrous fire underscores ongoing issues faced by migrants in their perilous journeys by sea.

(With inputs from agencies.)