Consternation in Haiti: U.S. citizen murdered in Port-au-Prince
A tragic event has shaken the community in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, after the discovery of the lifeless body of Michael Gallagher, a 63-year-old U.S. citizen who served as head of security for the renowned tobacco company Compagnie des Tabacs Comme Il Faut S.A.
Gallagher’s body was located last Wednesday, August 19, inside his office, presenting stab wounds that, according to initial reports, had been caused by a knife or machete. The discovery occurred after his close associates, alarmed by the lack of communication, initiated a search fearing a possible kidnapping.
Ongoing research and business cooperation
Haitian authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigative process to clarify the facts. As an initial measure, between 11 and 13 employees of the tobacco company were taken into police custody to be questioned about the incident.
The company Comme Il Faut has officially confirmed the death of its collaborator and has reiterated its full willingness to cooperate with the Haitian Judicial Police, while also requesting prudence while the circumstances of the crime are clarified.
For its part, the United States Department of State has confirmed the death of an American citizen in the Haitian capital, ensuring that the Embassy in Port-au-Prince maintains close communication with local authorities to provide the necessary consular assistance to the victim’s family.
Insecurity context in the area
Michael Gallagher had a 14-year career at the tobacco company, where his work was fundamental in security management. His area of work was located in a region marked by high danger due to constant clashes between criminal gangs fighting for territorial control in sectors such as the Plaine du Cul-de-Sac and Cité Soleil.
- Gallagher had had previous confrontations with members of armed groups operating in the area.
- Before his work in the tobacco industry, he provided protection services for former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, through the firm Steele Foundation, until 2004.
Security forces are keeping the case open as they work on collecting evidence to identify those responsible for this violent episode, which has had a profound impact on the region.
