345 Killed in Annual Sacrifice
It’s time for the annual human sacrifice at the Hajj pilgrimage, as this year’s Hajj stampede kills hundreds during the “Stoning the Devil” ritual.
MINA, Saudi Arabia (CNN) — At least 345 people have been killed in a stampede during a symbolic stoning ritual at the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, according to the country’s health ministry.
Health Minister Hamad al-Maneh told Saudi TV that 289 others were were injured in the stampede near Mecca and taken to hospital.
Many of those injured were not seriously hurt and have been released from the hospital, al-Maneh said. The number of injured does not include those treated on the scene, he said.
Video of the scene showed dozens of bodies lying on the ground, covered with sheets and blankets.