An explosion at a military barracks in the Bolivian town of Viacha resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and left numerous others injured. The incident, which occurred around 2:30 p.m. local time, took place in a storage area designated for pyrotechnic materials, according to local officials. The explosion is believed to have originated from the defense ministry’s supply of fireworks.

Reports from Viacha health director Rita Nebraska suggested that between 10 to 15 individuals lost their lives in the explosion, with 62 people sustaining injuries. Among the injured, 14 were taken to hospitals in La Paz, including a young girl with severe burns. Over 50 individuals were reported injured, with multiple homes suffering damage mainly from shattered windows due to the blast.

Emergency response teams, including ambulances, medical personnel, and law enforcement, were dispatched to the military compound to evaluate the situation, provide aid to the injured, and transport them to medical facilities for treatment. Nebraska cautioned that a potential heat source at the scene increased the risk of another explosion, advising residents to maintain a distance of at least 150 meters for safety.