Haiti’s interim president, Leslie Voltaire, has condemned a deadly gang attack during the reopening of Port-au-Prince’s General Hospital on Christmas Eve, which left two journalists dead and several others wounded.
Speaking on behalf of the transitional presidential council, Voltaire expressed outrage: “We condemn what happened today… when members of the population, journalists, and police officers were attacked,” he said. “We extend our condolences to the families, the Haitian National Police, and the journalists’ association. This act will not go unpunished.”
The attack took place as reporters gathered to cover the hospital’s reopening, which had been delayed by gang violence earlier in the year. Suspected members of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition opened fire, causing panic and chaos.
The Online Media Collective confirmed the deaths of journalists Markenzy Nathoux and Jimmy Jean. Graphic footage from the scene showed two bloodied bodies on stretchers, one wearing a press badge.
Street gangs control around 85% of Port-au-Prince, paralyzing essential services. Despite government promises to restore order, violence continues to escalate, with journalists and law enforcement increasingly targeted.
Haitian authorities have vowed to investigate the attack and hold the perpetrators accountable.