At least 13 people, including seven minors, were killed Friday in Madagascar in a stampede at the entrance to a sports stadium in the capital, according to the Red Cross and a member of parliament.
Madagascar is hosting the 11th edition of the Indian Ocean Island Games this year, an event that takes place every four years.
The stampede occurred at the entrance of Baria Stadium, where nearly 50,000 people had gathered to attend the opening ceremony of the 11th edition of the Indian Ocean Island Games.
Prime Minister Christian Ntsay had earlier stated to reporters outside a capital hospital where injured individuals were transported, "The provisional toll is 12 dead and up to 80 injured."
The cause of the stampede has not yet been determined.
Police, gendarmerie, and emergency teams were dispatched to the scene, as reported by a journalist from Agence France-Presse.
The Indian Ocean Island Games, a regional sporting event, is being hosted by Madagascar this year.
However, this unfortunate incident has cast a shadow over the festivities, underscoring the importance of safety measures during large gatherings.
The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder that the joy of sporting events can sometimes be marred by unforeseen circumstances.
As the investigation into the stampede continues, authorities and organizers will likely focus on preventing such incidents in the future, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants and attendees.
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