At least three people, including two journalists and a police officer, were killed on Tuesday when armed assailants opened fire during a press briefing at Haiti’s largest public hospital in Port-au-Prince. Several others, including journalists and medical personnel, were injured in the attack.
The incident occurred at the general hospital, which had recently been reclaimed by the Haitian government in July following its occupation and destruction by gang members. The Viv Ansanm gang alliance, which controls large parts of the capital, claimed responsibility for the assault.
The attack unfolded as journalists gathered to cover an announcement by Health Minister Lorthe Blema about the hospital’s reopening. The assailants began shooting, creating chaos as people scrambled for safety.
Journalists Markenzy Nathoux and Jimmy Jean were fatally shot, confirmed Robest Dimanche, spokesperson for the Online Media Collective. A police officer, whose name has not been released, was also killed, according to police spokesperson Lionel Lazarre.
“It felt like a terrible movie,” said Dieugo André, a photojournalist who witnessed the attack, speaking to The Haitian Times. “I have the blood of several injured journalists on my clothes.”
The Viv Ansanm gang, known for exerting significant control over parts of Port-au-Prince, later released a video stating they had not approved the hospital’s reopening. The gang had previously occupied and destroyed the facility in March.
Images and videos circulating online appear to show injured and deceased individuals at the hospital premises, further highlighting the violence.
The attack underscores the escalating insecurity in Haiti, where gang violence has surged, crippling public services and threatening humanitarian efforts. The government has struggled to regain control over key areas in the capital, with gangs frequently targeting civilians, officials, and institutions.
The international community has called for urgent measures to address Haiti’s deteriorating security situation, but the path to restoring order remains uncertain.
