Explosion at Bolivia military base kills at least 10, dozens injured

On Friday, an explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, claimed at least ten lives and left dozens injured, local authorities reported. The blast, which took place around 2:30 p.m. local time, occurred in an area designated for pyrotechnic material storage. While the cause of the explosion remains unknown, officials confirmed that it originated from the defense ministry's fireworks stockpile.

Viacha health director Rita Nebraska informed local media that the death toll could range from ten to fifteen, with 62 people sustaining injuries. Fourteen of the wounded were airlifted to hospitals in La Paz, including a girl suffering from third-degree burns. The explosion caused extensive damage, with over 50 individuals injured and numerous homes destroyed or damaged by shattered windows.

Emergency services, including ambulances, medical teams, and police, were dispatched to the military complex to evaluate the aftermath and transport the wounded to nearby health centers. Firefighters had previously warned about a lingering heat source at the site, posing a threat of another explosion and advising residents to maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters.