At least 10 individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries during a devastating explosion at a military compound in Viacha, Bolivia, located approximately 30 kilometers from the capital city of La Paz, according to local officials. The tragic incident took place at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time in an area designated for the storage of pyrotechnic materials.
Although the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation, authorities have indicated that it originated from the fireworks supply of the defense ministry. Rita Nebraska, the health director in Viacha, stated in an interview with local media that the explosion resulted in the death of between 10 and 15 individuals, with 62 others sustaining injuries. Among the injured, 14 were transferred to hospitals in La Paz, including a young girl with severe third-degree burns.
Reports from the police revealed that over 50 individuals were wounded, and numerous residences suffered damage, primarily due to shattered windows caused by the explosion. In response to the tragedy, ambulances, medical personnel, and law enforcement swiftly mobilized to the military complex to evaluate the extent of the damage and evacuate the injured to medical facilities.
Nebraska issued a warning that a residual heat source remained at the site, heightening the possibility of a secondary explosion, and advised residents to maintain a safe distance of at least 150 meters from the area.