Bishoftu Hospital confirms stampede, suffocation caused Irrecha deaths

Bishouftu Hospital, where many of the victims of the Irrecha stampede treated, confirmed that the stampede and suffocation lead to deaths and injuries.

Manager of the hospital, Desalegn Baissa told reporters that the loss of lives were caused due to falling into ditches surrounding the lake and suffocation from a huge number of people turned up at the annual event.

There were no bullet wounds or gun related deaths, the manager said, also confirming the death of 55 people, including 10 females.

According to Dessalegn, people died on spot as they fell into ditches while fleeing the stampede.

WATCH Irecha Stampede – View Discretion is Advised

Some 100 revelers returned home after getting treatment for major and minor injuries while four others remained for additional treatment, of which two were referred to Addis Ababa.

Aman Beshir, one of the victims, said he is getting better after treatments he received at the hospital.

On duty physician Dr. Mandefro Kisi also confirmed that the deaths and injuries were all due to the stampede since many fell into ditches and their bodies were covered in dust and mud.

Sunday’s annual Irrecha festival was interrupted following the chaotic situation orchestrated by anti-peace elements, the government said, expressing condolence to the victims and the bereaved.