Gang violence intensifies in Haiti
The United Nations has warned that the crisis in Haiti is escalating, with gang violence worsening across the country. (Video provided by AP, Thumb provided by Reuters)
A Spirit Airlines flight from Florida was struck by gunfire while landing in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Monday.
A spokesperson for the airline told Fox News that Digital Spirit Flight 951 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was diverted to Santiago, Dominican Republic and landed safely after being struck by gunfire.
Upon arrival in the Dominican Republic, inspection revealed evidence of damage to the aircraft consistent with gunfire.
No passengers were injured, but a flight attendant on the plane suffered minor injuries and is being evaluated by medical personnel.
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A Spirit Airlines passenger plane was struck by gunfire as it attempted to land in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Monday. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
The plane has since been grounded, and Spirit is arranging another plane to return guests and crew to Fort Lauderdale.
“The safety of our guests and team members is our top priority and we have suspended operations in Port-au-Prince (PAP) and Cap-Haitien (CAP) pending further evaluation,” the airline said in a statement.
The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince said it is aware of gang-led efforts to disrupt traffic to Port-au-Prince, which may include armed violence and disruption of roads, ports, and airports. said.
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File photo: A woman and her three children flee their home from gang violence on October 20, 2024 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. (Reuters/Ralph Teddy Errol/File Photo)
“The security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy said. “Travel within Haiti is at your own risk.”
The statement also noted that the U.S. government cannot guarantee the safety of Haiti's airports, borders, or American citizens traveling abroad.
The embassy advised anyone considering traveling to Haiti to consider their own safety first.
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The safety alert was issued on the same day that Haiti's Prime Minister Garry Coniel was fired after just six months in office.
