At least 10 individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries on Friday following an explosion at a military compound in the Bolivian town of Viacha, situated approximately 30 kilometers away from 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 exact cause is still under investigation, officials have indicated that the explosion originated from the defense ministry’s supply of fireworks.
Rita Nebraska, the health director in Viacha, reported to local media that between 10 to 15 individuals are presumed to have perished in the tragedy, with 62 individuals sustaining injuries. Fourteen of the wounded were transported to hospitals in La Paz, including a young girl with severe third-degree burns.
Law enforcement disclosed that over 50 people suffered injuries, with numerous residences sustaining damage primarily due to shattered windows from the explosion. Ambulances, medical teams, and police personnel were dispatched to the military site to evaluate the extent of the damage and assist in evacuating the injured to medical facilities.
Nebraska cautioned that a heat source persisted at the scene, posing a potential risk of further explosions, and advised residents to maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters from the area.