Gang Attack on Church Shelter in Haiti Leaves Dozens Dead

Armed gang members attacked a church in Kenscoff, near Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on the night of August 24, 2026, resulting in significant loss of life. The United Nations reported that at least 47 people were killed and 22 injured during the assault on the facility, which was sheltering displaced individuals. Local officials, including Kenscoff Mayor Massillon Jean, attributed the violence to the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, noting that some victims were killed execution-style.

Reports indicate that the violence extended beyond the church, with attackers burning homes and killing livestock. According to Agenzia Fides, the targeted worship center belonged to the evangelical Church of the Ark of the New Covenant. In response to the incident, the Haitian government announced the deployment of security reinforcements to the area, vowing to restore order and pursue those responsible for the violence. This attack follows a period of heightened instability in the country, with the United Nations documenting over 1,400 deaths related to gang activity during the second quarter of 2026.