At least 62 people were killed and dozens injured when a tanker transporting gasoline exploded Monday in Haiti’s second largest city. The Pope urged prayer for the nation Wednesday after the general audience address, lamenting that among the dead were many children.
He said:
Poor Haiti, one thing after another; they are a people who suffer. Let us pray, let us pray for Haiti, they are good people, religious people, but they are suffering so much. I am close to the inhabitants of that city and the families of the victims, as well as the injured.
I invite you to join me in praying for these brothers and sisters of ours, who are so sorely tried.
The tanker had stopped because of mechanical issues and started leaking. People were surrounding the tanker to collect the gas, given the island’s severe shortage, when the explosion occurred.
At least 50 houses surrounding the street were affected, and authorities say those homes will likely need to be demolished.
Aid groups are sending kits for burn victims to local hospitals.
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