A stampede at Haiti's iconic Citadelle Laferrière fortress killed 25 people on Saturday, authorities confirmed Sunday after revising an initial higher tally. The tragedy occurred amid severe overcrowding at the UNESCO World Heritage site in Milot, northern Haiti, during an annual celebration packed with students, young visitors, and a social media-promoted youth gathering known as "Citadel Vibe 3.0."

The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. at the fortress entrance, where only one access point was open for both entry and exit, leading to congestion exacerbated by heavy rain and slippery conditions. Officials attributed the crush to deficiencies in crowd management, with panic reportedly sparked by rumors surrounding the appearance of TikTok influencer "Dope Fresh," who had promoted the event. Dozens were injured, with at least 30 hospitalized, some in critical condition at facilities like Hôpital Sacré-Cœur de Milot.

Many victims were young, including children as young as 12 and students attending the festivities. Autopsies confirmed asphyxiation due to poor air circulation and crushing as the primary causes.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé expressed profound sorrow, offering condolences and assuring solidarity to bereaved families. He declared three days of national mourning beginning Tuesday, with the government pledging to cover funeral expenses for the victims. Culture Minister Emmanuel Menard confirmed the deaths, stating, "The injured are currently receiving the necessary medical care, and a rescue team is searching for any missing persons."

Emmanuel Pierre, head of the national civil protection authority, noted the toll revision from 30 to 25 following the investigation. The Haitian National Police launched a probe into the exact cause and urged the public to avoid rumors. Municipal authorities in nearby Cap-Haïtien dispatched teams for rescue support, questioning whether organizers secured permits from the Institute for the Preservation of National Heritage.

The Citadelle Laferrière, commissioned by King Henri Christophe in the early 1800s to defend against French recolonization, stands as a symbol of Haitian sovereignty and features on currency and stamps. Despite gang violence plaguing much of Haiti, the northern region around Milot remains relatively stable and draws crowds, mostly Haitian tourists. The site has been closed pending further review of safety measures for large events.

The disaster underscores challenges in managing mass gatherings at historic sites amid Haiti's ongoing instability.