Fuel Tanker Explodes in Haiti, Leaving Over 2 Dozen Dead

A devastating fuel tanker explosion in Haiti claims 26 lives, leaving dozens more seriously injured and a community in shock.

At a Glance

A Fuel tanker explosion near Miragoane, Haiti, killed 26 and injured dozens.
Many victims suffered severe burns, some with up to 80% of their bodies affected.
The explosion occurred after a tanker collision led to a fuel spill.
Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille promised medical care for victims.
The incident highlights ongoing fuel shortages and instability in Haiti.

Tragic Explosion Rocks Haitian Community

A horrific fuel tanker explosion in Haiti has left 26 people dead and dozens more seriously injured. The incident occurred near Miragoane, approximately 100km west of Port-au-Prince, when a fuel tanker collided with another vehicle and began leaking fuel. As people gathered to collect the spilled fuel, a catastrophic explosion ensued, resulting in widespread devastation.

Emmanuel Pierre, head of Haiti’s civil protection agency, reported on September 15 that the death toll was revised from an initial 16 to 24 as more charred bodies were discovered near the explosion site. Officials later said that the number had risen to 26. The severity of the situation is underscored by the fact that many of the injured suffered burns to up to 80% of their bodies, presenting a significant challenge for medical responders.

24 killed in Haiti fuel tanker explosion https://t.co/r3YM6o7Ll9

— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) September 15, 2024

Government Response and Challenges

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille witnessed the aftermath of the explosion and promised medical care for the victims. In a statement, Conille described the scene as “horrible” and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the affected families. The Prime Minister called an emergency government meeting to address the crisis and coordinate relief efforts.

“It’s a horrible scene we’ve just witnessed,” Conille stated at Port-au-Prince airport’s tarmac.

Recent reports indicate at least 40 people were injured. There were 12 individuals with severe burns that authorities planned to transport to Port-au-Prince. Six other injured individuals were evacuated to specialist hospitals, while others were taken to Sainte Therese Hospital in Miragoane.

Broader Context: Haiti’s Ongoing Crisis

This tragic incident occurs against a backdrop of severe violence and instability in Haiti. The government is currently engaged in a struggle against violent gangs, and a state of emergency was recently expanded. The fuel tanker explosion highlights the desperate situation many Haitians face, as people risked their lives to collect spilled fuel due to ongoing shortages.

“The government stands in solidarity with all the victims and their families and is planning evacuation by helicopter,” Conille wrote in Haitian Creole in a social media post.

The United Nations reports that almost 580,000 people have been displaced by conflict in Haiti, and close to five million are going up against severe hunger. The fuel shortages are exacerbated by gang control of key highways, disrupting imports and distribution. This latest tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international support and internal reforms to address Haiti’s multifaceted crisis.