A mother hurriedly ushers her young child into a waiting car, pulling him along as she shields his eyes. Other family members follow, carrying heavy suitcases, avoiding looking at the scene before their house.
They're fleeing the city, despite the risks of driving through gang-controlled roads.
The reason for their escape is evident on the street: a charred corpse, believed to be a gang member killed by their neighbors.
The body is contorted, with metal wires wrapped around it, the fourth such gruesome sight in two days witnessed by a local news outlet.
Further up the hill, another mother rushes towards a helicopter, holding her infant. Eyewitnesses report that she left her car seat behind, urged to hurry by armed guards.
The unauthorized helicopter landing sparks a commotion; video footage shows a scuffle as the chopper takes off.
These scenes are the result of escalating anarchy. Until recently, these were the residents who had a choice to stay, but now they too are fleeing amid unprecedented terror in the city.
For the past three weeks, the capital has been trapped in a violent cycle far beyond its usual kidnappings and gang violence.
A league of armed gangs is waging war on the city, targeting police and state institutions, while frightened residents are forming vigilante groups to defend their neighborhoods.
Human remains litter the streets, yet the promised multinational security mission has not materialized.
The country had opportunities to change course. Prime Minister Ariel Henry requested foreign military assistance almost 18 months ago, but the gangs continued to expand their control over the city.
Six months have passed since the UN Security Council authorized a military support mission, and two months since neighboring countries warned of the dire situation.
The recent wave of violence began when the gangs demanded the prime minister's resignation. Despite his resignation, the violence has continued.
Ten days ago, a transitional council for the country was announced, but no progress has been made, and the killings persist.
A candidate for the transitional council expressed frustration with the slow political process while gangs continue to gain ground.
He believes the council could be formed within 24 hours, but other steps, such as appointing a prime minister and creating a national security council, will take longer.
The port and airport may reopen within the first 100 days of a new government, but the current situation is dire, with much of the state disintegrated and essential services compromised.
The National Police, the only functional state institution left, are underequipped and overstretched. They lack leadership, equipment, and support, making them ineffective against the gangs.
Foreign forces, led by Kenya and including personnel from various countries, are expected to assist, but there are concerns about the mission's success without a clear framework.
Security and humanitarian issues are intertwined, with clean water and food urgently needed. However, reclaiming territory and establishing safe transport routes in the city are essential but challenging tasks.
There is talk of hiring private security companies and even bounty hunters to tackle the gang leaders. Despite the reluctance to involve foreign forces, many are realizing that the country has no other option to end its nightmare.
The situation is a stark reminder of the country's tumultuous history, from overthrowing colonial rule to being shunned by the international community. As one observer noted, the country has been left with no choice but to seek help from the same international community that has often neglected its plight.