Free Republic

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - At least 50 people were killed in crowding during the stoning ritual at the hajj pilgrimage on Thursday, witnesses said. The Arab television news station Al-Arabiya reported dozens of pilgrims died. Reuters journalists counted at least 50 bodies lined up on the ground and covered in white shrouds. Some were being placed on lorries by medics. The stampede broke out as tens of thousands of pilgrims filed past al-Jamarat, a series of three pillars representing the devil that the faithful pelt with stones to purge themselves of sin.