Bus crash into crowd in Haiti kills 38 people, injures 14

The bus crashed outside Gonaives after travelling from Cap Haitien.

At least 38 people were killed and dozens of others have been injured when a bus went out of control and hit a band of street musicians in northern Haiti.

At least 14 people were taken to nearby hospitals in serious condition after the driver of a bus lost control and ploughed into the the crowd listening to a musical band in the northern city of Gonaives.

Authorities say the bus veered into the street musicians, who regularly staged cultural and religious musical performances before the Holy Week celebration.

After the incident local residents tried to set the vehicle on fire with the passengers still inside, but police prevented them from doing so, according to Gonaives Civil Protection authorities.

The bus, the driver - who reportedly tried to flee - and several passengers are currently under the protection of Gonaives authorities.

Gonaives is located about 150 km north of Port-au-Prince.