Haiti’s interim president, Leslie Voltaire, has strongly condemned a deadly gang attack that disrupted the reopening of Port-au-Prince’s General Hospital on Christmas Eve. The attack claimed the lives of two journalists and left several others injured.
“In the name of the transitional presidential council, we condemn what happened today… when members of the population, journalists, and policemen were attacked,” Voltaire stated in an official address. “We send our sympathy to the families, the Haitian National Police, and the journalist association. This act will not go unpunished.”
The hospital’s reopening, a significant event following its closure due to prior gang violence, turned into a scene of chaos as gunfire erupted. Suspected members of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition reportedly targeted the gathering, which included reporters covering the event. 
The Online Media Collective identified the slain journalists as Markenzy Nathoux and Jimmy Jean. Disturbing videos from the scene showed their lifeless bodies on stretchers, with one visibly wearing press credentials.
Port-au-Prince remains deeply entrenched in gang violence, with approximately 85% of the city under gang control. This dominance has severely disrupted essential services and daily life. Despite government efforts to restore order, violence continues to escalate, with journalists and law enforcement often targeted in the crossfire.
Haitian authorities have vowed to investigate the Christmas Eve attack and hold those responsible accountable. However, the pervasive influence of gangs poses significant challenges to justice and security in the capital.
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