116 Killed in Stampede after Religious Gathering in India

A horrifying scene in India, a deadly stampede breaking out inside a makeshift tent as a massive crowd tried to leave a Hindu gathering Tuesday. This district administrator saying, “Just when the event was about to culminate, there was a sudden commotion due to overcrowding and excessive humidity, which caused the stampede.” Local police saying at least 116 people killed and dozens injured, most of the victims women and children. The chaos erupting in the city of Hathras, three hours from the capital New Delhi. This witness saying, “People started falling, one upon another, one upon another. Those who were crushed died. People there pulled them out.”

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Deadly stampedes, not uncommon during Indian religious festivals because of large crowds and few safety measures in place, including one in 2005 when 265 people were trampled. Back in Hathras, a somber scene outside the hospital as residents carried stretchers, not for patients, but for victims. Police pouring over paperwork, documenting the names of the deceased. The Prime Minister vowing to get all necessary help to survivors.

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A crowd gathered outside a trauma center. For many of them, it’s not good news. Family and friends devastated and in disbelief. This survivor saying, “I came to attend the event with eight other people, but no one survived.” Their belongings gathered and left for family members to comb through, now left to grapple with their unimaginable loss.

Local media outlets are reporting that some 15,000 people or more were gathered at this event, and the site only had permission to host about 5,000. Also this evening, Prime Minister Modi saying the government will compensate victims and their families of up to around $2,400.

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