Rapid Response Saves Lives After Deadly Attack in Haiti

On the night of October 3, 2024, the small town of Pont-Sondé was the scene of one of the deadliest massacres Haiti has seen in recent history. An armed gang, arriving by canoe to catch unsuspecting residents by surprise, opened gunfire and set fire to homes and vehicles, causing widespread panic and despair. The attack claimed the lives of at least 115 people, including women and children, and forced thousands to flee the community.

Faced with this tragedy and a growing number of forcibly displaced people, the Saint-Nicolas Hospital in Saint-Marc, supported by Partners In Health's sister organization in Haiti, Zanmi Lasante (ZL), immediately provided lifesaving care to those affected. In the first 24 hours following the attack, the hospital admitted 23 victims who suffered gunshot wounds: five died upon arrival and another succumbed during a surgical procedure.

Despite challenges posed by an overwhelming influx of victims with severe injuries and a critical lack of resources, medical teams acted quickly, treating 42 patients, five of whom required emergency surgery.

"We received a large number of patients suffering from serious gunshot injuries, most of whom arrived in critical condition," said Dr. Ernsot Jean Marc, head of the emergency department. "We had to reorganize resources, mobilize our staff, and coordinate efforts to welcome these victims."

Prime Minister Gary Conille visits Saint-Nicholas Hospital the day after the massacre perpetrated by armed gangs in Pont-Sondé. Photo by Thierry Bozile / PIH

Medical Director Dr. Alexis Frantz applauded ZL for supplying medical equipment and strengthening the hospital's emergency response teams. "We were able to mobilize three surgeons, two orthopedists, and 10 residents in family medicine, as well as receive help from doctors from other health centers in the city," he explained.

Local solidarity also played a vital role in effectively managing the crisis. Community members supported both staff and patients, providing water, food, and supplies.

"The camaraderie between the hospital teams and the help of the people of Saint-Marc allowed us to hold on in these uncertain times," Jean Marc said.

On October 4, Prime Minister Gary Conille traveled to the hospital to thank the medical teams for their exemplary response. He recognized ZL's far-reaching efforts, highlighting their continued commitment to improving health care in Haiti, even in crisis situations.

Zanmi Lasante is currently supporting the operation of a mobile clinic in Antoinette Dessalines to provide care for survivors located outside of the Saint-Marc region. Organized by Saint-Nicolas Hospital with the support of UNICEF, the clinic offers prenatal, general, and pediatric consultations to those who fled from the attack on Pont-Sondé. This initiative aims to provide essential care to pregnant women, children, and others affected by the crisis, meeting the most urgent needs of the displaced population.

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