Brief
Haitian mayor Jean Massillon, champion of Kenscoff, dies
Deputy Mayor Jean Max Duvivier confirmed the health‑related death of the outspoken Kenscoff mayor.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Jean Massillon, the mayor of the Haitian farming community Kenscoff, died on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, according to Deputy Mayor Jean Max Duvivier, who told radio station Métropole Haiti the death was health‑related.
What happened
Massillon, who had become a prominent voice against gang assaults on Kenscoff, was confirmed dead by local officials. The community, located in the hills above Port‑au‑Prince, has endured two brutal massacres in July and August that left at least 164 dead, over 70 kidnapped and dozens missing, displacing roughly 10,000 residents.
What the reports add
The Associated Press noted that Massillon repeatedly urged the Haitian government to protect his citizens and used radio broadcasts to highlight their plight. The government described him as a man who never shied away from responsibility, staying present with his community despite insecurity.
What was said
Haiti’s government said, "Jean Massillon was a man who never shied away from his responsibilities… his death leaves a deep void within his family and the community he served with such dedication."
How it came about
Earlier this week, Massillon asked displaced residents to be patient while security forces reclaimed neighborhoods, praising police courage after several areas returned to government control.
Key facts
- Jean Massillon, mayor of Kenscoff, died on Oct. 9, 2026 (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Deputy Mayor Jean Max Duvivier confirmed the death to Métropole Haiti (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Kenscoff suffered massacres in July and August that killed at least 164 people (winnipegfreepress.com)
- The Haitian government praised Massillon for staying with his community (winnipegfreepress.com)
Sources
- [1] winnipegfreepress.com — originally reported as “Jean Massillon, a Haitian mayor known for defending the people of Kenscoff, has died”
