Anderson Cooper's teacher assassinated in Haiti's violence

Haiti is currently facing severe gang violence, particularly in Port-au-Prince, where children at the Have Faith Haiti orphanage have not left for years due to security concerns. During a report, Anderson Cooper noted the alarming situation, with gunshots heard nearby. He reflected on the assassination of his former math teacher, Yves Volel, who was killed for opposing the interim government after running for president in 1987. The violence has displaced over a million people, marking a significant crisis in the country.

Anderson Cooper's teacher assassinated in Haiti's violence
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Published Aug 9, 2026

Topic overview

Briefly

  • Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, is experiencing extreme gang violence, with an orphanage providing refuge for children.
  • Anderson Cooper recalls the assassination of his math teacher, Yves Volel, who was an advocate for change in Haiti.
  • The ongoing violence has displaced over a million people and has led to a significant deterioration of safety in the region.

What happened

Haiti has been facing severe gang violence, particularly in its capital, Port-au-Prince, where an orphanage named Have Faith Haiti serves as a refuge for children who have not left its walls for years due to the ongoing security crisis. Correspondent Anderson Cooper reported on the dire situation, noting that gunshots could be heard from outside the orphanage during his visit. The violence has displaced over a million people, with gangs controlling up to 90% of the metropolitan area. Cooper reflected on his past experiences in Haiti, particularly the assassination of his former math teacher, Yves Volel, who was a passionate advocate for change in his home country. Volel, who ran for president in 1987, was targeted for his opposition to the interim government, and his death had a profound impact on Cooper, fueling his desire to learn more about Haiti. The current state of violence in Haiti is unprecedented, with Cooper describing it as the most dangerous he has witnessed in decades of reporting. He emphasized the resilience of the Haitian people, many of whom still aspire to improve their country despite the overwhelming challenges they face.

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Updated Aug 9, 2026

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