Sucre, Bolivia – Bolivian authorities have declared a humanitarian disaster following a massive explosion that rocked a military barracks in the municipality of Viacha, about 30 kilometers from the capital, La Paz. According to Reuters, the sudden explosion occurred at 2:30 p.m. local time (6:30 p.m. GMT). It took place in a sensitive area within the barracks typically used for storing flammable materials.
Death toll and critical injuries
Rita Nebraska, the health director for Viacha County, confirmed in a statement to a local television station that initial estimates indicate between 10 and 15 people were killed as a result of the powerful explosion and the resulting devastation. The number of injured has also risen to 62, all suffering from various wounds caused by flying shrapnel and the blast wave.
Ambulance efforts and transporting the injured to hospitals
Rescue teams rushed to the scene immediately after the accident to provide first aid to the injured. A health official explained that 14 people in critical condition were transferred to central hospitals in the capital, La Paz, to receive necessary medical care. Among the critical cases was a child suffering from severe third-degree burns requiring immediate medical attention.
