At least 10 individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries on Friday following an explosion at a military base in Viacha, Bolivia, situated approximately 30 kilometers from the capital city of La Paz, according to local officials. The incident took place at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time in a section designated for storing pyrotechnic materials, as confirmed by authorities.
Although the exact cause is still under investigation, authorities have pointed out that the explosion originated from the defense ministry’s supply of fireworks. Rita Nebraska, the health director in Viacha, mentioned in a televised statement that an estimated 10 to 15 individuals perished in the explosion, with 62 individuals sustaining injuries. Among the wounded, 14 were transferred to hospitals in La Paz, including a young girl with severe third-degree burns.
Police reported that over 50 people were injured, and numerous residences suffered damage, particularly with shattered windows due to the explosion. Ambulances, medical personnel, and law enforcement were dispatched to the military facility to evaluate the extent of the damage and transport the injured to medical facilities.
Nebraska cautioned that a potential heat source remained at the scene, posing a risk of another explosion, and advised residents to maintain a distance of at least 150 meters from the area.
