13.04.2026 12:14
During the visit of social media influencer "Dopefresh" at Laferriere Castle in Haiti, the crowd density turned into a stampede. As the rain began and with only one exit available, panic increased, resulting in at least 30 fatalities. Authorities indicated that the death toll could rise, and an investigation has been launched regarding the incident. The influencer claimed that he was not in the area during the stampede.
At least 30 people lost their lives in the stampede at Laferriere Fortress in Haiti. It was reported that the incident occurred during the crowd surge caused by a social media influencer in the area.
INFLUENCER VISIT TURNED INTO A TRAGEDY
According to a report by The New York Times, the presence of social media influencer Sebastien Joseph, known as "Dopefresh," in the area led to an increase in the crowd. It was stated that the stampede occurred during this surge.
RAIN AND SINGLE EXIT DOOR INCREASED PANIC
It was noted that as the rain started in the area during the incident, the crowd rushed towards the exit at the same time, and the presence of only one door for entry and exit exacerbated the panic.
DEATH TOLL MAY RISE
Haitian authorities announced that at least 30 people had died according to initial assessments, expressing concern that the death toll may rise. Haiti's Minister of Culture and Communication, Emmanuel Menard, announced that an investigation into the incident had been initiated.
STATEMENT FROM THE INFLUENCER
“Dopefresh,” whose real name is Sebastien Joseph, described the events as "very sad" in a statement made on his social media account. Joseph, who claimed he was not in the area during the incident, stated, "I was already coming down the mountain. Everyone started running at the same time."