Consternation in Haiti: US security chief murdered in Port-au-Prince
A tragic event has shaken the business community in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Michael Gallagher, a 63-year-old U.S. citizen who served as the head of security for the renowned tobacco company Compagnie des Tabacs Comme Il Faut S.A., was found lifeless inside his office.
The discovery took place on the night of Wednesday, August 19, after those close to the victim alerted authorities about their absence, which initially raised fears of a possible kidnapping. Local authorities have confirmed that the body showed stab wounds, presumably caused by a knife or a machete.
Ongoing research and business cooperation
Within the framework of the investigations to clarify this homicide, the Haitian Judicial Police proceeded to detain a group of between 11 and 13 employees of the aforementioned tobacco company, who were placed in custody for interrogation purposes.
The company Comme Il Faut has officially confirmed the passing of its collaborator and has expressed its full willingness to cooperate with the authorities in clarifying this unfortunate event, requesting prudence while the investigations proceed.
For its part, the United States Department of State confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen in the Haitian capital, ensuring that the American embassy maintains close communication with local authorities to provide the necessary consular assistance to the victim’s family.
A track record marked by safety in high-risk areas
Michael Gallagher had a 14-year career at the tobacco company, where he led security operations in a complex environment. His area of work was located in a zone marked by instability and constant clashes between armed groups disputing territorial control in sectors such as the Plaine du Cul-de-Sac and Cité Soleil.
- Gallagher had a background in executive protection, having previously worked for the Steele Foundation.
- During his previous tenure, he was assigned to the protection of former Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide until 2004.
- Sources close to the case indicated that the American had had previous friction and confrontations with members of criminal gangs operating in the areas under his supervision.
The authorities continue working to determine the material and intellectual authors of this crime, while the case remains under a strict investigation to clarify the exact circumstances surrounding Gallagher’s death.
