An explosion occurred at a military installation in Viacha, about 30 km from La Paz, in Bolivia, this Friday. The incident happened around 2:30 PM local time, when pyrotechnic material stored at the site exploded. A dense column of black smoke could be seen rising over the city, and residents recorded the moment in videos shared by local press.
The toll from the accident is at least two dead and 59 injured, according to Colonel Roger Roca, spokesperson for the Bolivian police. Seven other people remain missing after the explosion.
Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano confirmed that the barracks stored pyrotechnic material. An investigation was opened by authorities to determine the causes of the explosion and investigate any responsibilities for the accident.
Authorities reported that the priority at the moment is to assist the injured, support their families and continue the search efforts for the missing.
