At least 10 individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries on Friday following an explosion at a military facility in Viacha, Bolivia, located approximately 30 kilometers from the capital city of La Paz, as confirmed by local officials.
The incident took place around 2:30 p.m. local time in a section designated for storing pyrotechnic materials, according to authorities.
While the specific cause is still under investigation, officials indicated that the explosion originated from the defense ministry’s supply of fireworks.
Rita Nebraska, the health director in Viacha, informed local media that an estimated 10 to 15 individuals have perished in the tragedy, with 62 individuals reported injured. Fourteen of the wounded individuals were transferred to hospitals in La Paz, among them a young girl suffering from severe third-degree burns.
Police reported over 50 injuries and significant property damage, primarily caused by shattered windows due to the explosion.
Emergency response teams, including ambulances, medical personnel, and law enforcement, swiftly mobilized to the military compound to evaluate the extent of the damage and facilitate the evacuation of the injured to medical facilities.
Nebraska cautioned that a potential heat source remained at the site, posing a risk for another explosion, and advised residents to maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters from the area.
