April 23, 2025
On December 24, 2024, an exceptionally violent armed attack struck the State University Hospital of Haiti (HUEH), a facility dedicated to health and saving lives. This barbaric act claimed the lives of two journalists and a police officer while seriously injuring several others, including members of the press and law enforcement. Following the tragic event, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé expressed outrage and extended his condolences to the victims’ families. “We will not remain silent in the face of such barbarity. The government stands with the bereaved families, the injured, and all those affected,” he declared.
In response to this crisis, a special commission for monitoring and support was established under the leadership of Minister of Justice and Public Security Dr. Patrick Pélissier. The commission immediately took concrete actions, providing financial assistance to families to meet urgent needs, such as medical care and food. Additionally, the government funded and organized dignified funeral services in accordance with the wishes of the victims’ families.
The victims were categorized into three groups: deceased, critically injured, and less severely injured. This classification helped streamline medical and financial support efforts. The commission also conducted a meticulous review of necessary documentation to identify beneficiaries and ensure fair compensation. Families received administrative support, while critically injured individuals were given uninterrupted medical care.
The commission continues to work tirelessly to finalize beneficiaries’ cases and expedite compensation payments. Regular meetings with the Minister of Justice are being held to monitor progress and enhance coordination. A detailed report, including outcomes and recommendations for managing similar crises in the future, will soon be submitted to the Prime Minister and made public.
The government reaffirms its full commitment to the victims and their families. “We will spare no effort to support the victims, restore their dignity, and ensure justice is served,” emphasized the Prime Minister. The funeral of one victim has already taken place, while services for the other two are scheduled for January 16 and 18, 2025. The government is ensuring that these moments of farewell are conducted with the utmost dignity and respect.
This tragedy, which has devastated families and shaken the nation’s collective conscience, serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen security and justice in Haiti. The government pledges to honor the memory of the deceased, support the recovery of the injured, and bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. “The pain of this tragedy is ours, and it compels us to act with even greater determination and courage,” the Prime Minister concluded.
