Tragic Fuel Truck Explosion in Haiti's Southern Peninsula Kills 16 and Injures Dozens

A fuel truck exploded in Haiti's southern peninsula on Saturday, resulting in 16 fatalities and 40 severe injuries. Prime Minister Garry Conille emphasized the government's efforts to assist the victims. The explosion occurred near Miragoane after the truck's gas tank was punctured. The country faces a humanitarian crisis due to gang activities.

A fuel truck explosion occurred on Saturday morning in Haiti's southern peninsula, claiming at least 16 lives and leaving 40 others with serious burns, officials confirmed. The incident took place near the coastal city of Miragoane in the department of Nippes.

Haiti Prime Minister Garry Conille announced that emergency teams were mobilized to 'save the lives of the seriously injured.' The government has expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. Authorities revealed that the 16 bodies found were completely charred and unrecognizable.

A witness reported that the truck's gas tank had been punctured by another vehicle, prompting people to gather at the site to collect fuel. 'Those who were close to the truck got pulverized,' he stated. The exact number of casualties remains uncertain due to the large crowd present during the incident.

Fuel deliveries to the Miragoane region have been delayed as a precaution against gang-controlled highways surrounding Port-au-Prince. Gangs have exacerbated a humanitarian crisis in the capital, marked by mass displacements, sexual violence, child recruitment, and widespread hunger. Nationwide, a state of emergency is in effect.

Haiti's civil protection agency identified some of the injured, including a 31-year-old man and two 23-year-old men, all suffering burns over 89% of their bodies, who are now receiving treatment in Les Cayes. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, including one in Cap-Haitien in 2021 that killed at least 60 people.

(With inputs from agencies.)