By: Alyssa Wilson

Mourners, politicians and the family of Jovenel Moïse fled the funeral for the assassinated president after shots were fired near the private ceremony. 

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Hundreds of protesters clashed with police outside of the gathering, The Guardian reported. The cries of protesters could be heard while the event was proceeding, but the sound of gunshots and black smoke interrupted the event. Representatives from the United States and the United Nations left the event abruptly, according to Forbes.  

RELATED: Haiti Getting New Prime Minister as Nation Continues Search for Stability   

Moïse’s widow, Martine, who was injured when her husband was killed, was at the funeral in a sling. She briefly touched the casket before bringing her hand to her heart in silence.  

RELATED: Biden Will Not Send Troops to Haiti After President Moïse’s Assassination  

As Haiti’s Police Chief Léon Charles arrived at the event, protesters yelled “Assassin!” and one woman said he did not take measures to save Moïse. The funeral took place several days after the country’s new Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, was sworn into office.  

Violence in the country has continued since the assassination on July 7. On Thursday, the Biden administration announced the appointment of a special envoy to help promote peace and the country’s stability, as they work to hold free and fair elections.  

RELATED: Special Envoy Appointed by the US to Promote Peace in Haiti 

Moïse is expected to be laid to rest Monday in his hometown of Cap-Haïtien.  

If you or someone you know is struggling from trauma triggered by this story, resources are available here.