American security official found dead in Haiti office

Michael Gallagher, a 63-year-old American citizen, was found dead in his office in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Gallagher served as the head of security for the tobacco company Compagnie des Tabacs Comme Il Faut S.A., a position he held for approximately 14 years.

Authorities reported that Gallagher died from wounds inflicted by a knife or machete. Following the discovery of his body on the night of Wednesday, August 19, between 11 and 13 employees of the tobacco company were detained for questioning by the Haitian Judicial Police.

The U.S. Department of State confirmed the death of an American citizen in Port-au-Prince and stated that the U.S. Embassy in Haiti is coordinating with local authorities to provide consular assistance to the family. Gallagher worked in an area frequently impacted by clashes between armed groups disputing territorial control.