The death toll in a brutal gang attack on the small town of Pont-Sondé in central Haiti has tragically risen to 115, according to a local official. This attack, which occurred on October 3, stands as one of the most devastating massacres in recent Haitian history.
The mayor of Saint-Marc, Myriam Fièvre, confirmed the rising death toll and expressed concerns that the number may continue to climb as authorities are still searching for bodies and facing challenges in accessing certain areas of the town. She emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and protection of the population.
Previously, the U.N. had reported at least 70 fatalities following the invasion of Pont-Sondé by the Gran Grif gang, located in the central Artibonite region. In the aftermath of the attack, over 6,200 survivors have fled the town and sought refuge in Saint-Marc, where they are currently residing in temporary shelters such as a church, a school, and a public plaza.
A local human rights group has indicated that the violent incident was sparked by the Gran Grif gang's displeasure with a self-defense group attempting to curb gang activities in Pont-Sondé and thwart their exploitation of a newly established makeshift road toll nearby.
The situation remains dire as authorities continue their search for victims and work to address the aftermath of this horrific event. The community is grappling with the profound impact of this senseless violence, and efforts are underway to provide support and assistance to those affected by this tragedy.
