Haiti Death Toll Rises to 1,419, Over 6,900 Injured

By Staff, Agencies

The number listed killed from a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Haiti rose to 1,419, with more than 6,900 injured, the country’s civilian protection agency said Monday.

The quake also destroyed more than 37,000 homes, officials said. Rescue workers dug at the rubble with heavy equipment and bare hands to recover survivors.

The influx of those injured in the quakes overwhelmed Haitian hospitals that were already short of medical supplies.

Doctors said they faced "chronic" equipment shortages as patients flooded in since the earthquake on Saturday.

Countries pledged assistance to Haiti, which is already reeling after the assassination of its president. Some 15 tons of supplies have already arrived from Mexico alone.

The crisis could turn out worse, as Tropical Depression Grace threatens to pour 15 inches of rainfall on the island Hispaniola, shared with the Dominican Republic. Mudslides and floods are likely.