Haitian police arrest key suspect in killing of two sisters on La Gonâve Island

Haitian police on Monday, March 2, arrested a key suspect in the killing of two young sisters on La Gonâve Island, detaining him just about 24 hours before the children’s funeral.

Janel Louissaint, known as “Tiga,” is accused of killing Wilandia Stimphile, 7, and Wisberline Stimphile, 5, according to Saint-Luc Paul, a Communal Section Administrative Council (CASEC) official in Anse-à-Galets, who confirmed the arrest in a phone interview with The Haitian Times. Louissaint remains in custody as investigators work on the case.

The arrest brings the total number of people detained in the investigation to eight. Four suspects, including Louissaint, remain in custody. The others were released after questioning but placed under judicial supervision as the investigation continues.

The sisters were killed the evening of Feb. 18  in Kafou Dèl, the 5th communal section of Picmy, Anse-à-Galets. Their bodies were later found in a wooded area near their home after their mother, Roselor Stimphile, returned from the market.

The killings shocked residents across La Gonâve and prompted protests demanding justice and stronger protection for children.

Community mobilizes

In the days following the deaths, local advocacy groups organized marches calling for accountability. On Feb. 27, Rezo Sivivan Pratik Restavèka, a child protection organization, led a peaceful march from Bas Lumière National School to the site of the killings in Picmy.

“Children belong to no one; they have the right to live, to be protected, to grow up without fear, and to demand justice,” a member of the network said during a press conference.

Online, reactions ranged from grief to anger. Many offered condolences to the family.

“How sad. May their souls rest in peace. My deepest condolences to the family,” wrote Darry Williams on Facebook.

Others demanded firm punishment if the suspects are found guilty.

“If he is guilty, he must face the consequences of his actions and reveal all his accomplices,” wrote Johnny Joseph. “The people are angry. But justice must be served properly.”

Some social media users speculated about possible gang ties, citing unverified claims that the suspect may have come from Port-au-Prince. Authorities have not confirmed those allegations.

“A serious investigation must be conducted before condemning someone,” wrote John Kerry Mon Cœur. “The justice system must confirm the facts before any conclusion is reached.”

Local authorities have urged calm as the case proceeds.

“The investigation is ongoing to establish all responsibilities,” Paul said. “We call on the public to remain calm and to have confidence in the judicial institutions.”

No court date has been announced for the four suspects who remain in custody.

Wilandia and Wisberline are scheduled to be buried Tuesday,  March 3.

“We want the truth,” wrote Taina in a Facebook comment. “Not just arrests, but clear evidence.”

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