Tragic Military Plane Crash Near El Alto Airport Claims Lives and Injures Many

At least 15 people have tragically lost their lives and 28 others have sustained injuries following a military plane accident that occurred on Friday afternoon near El Alto International Airport in La Paz, Bolivia. The specifics of the incident remain unclear, and there is a possibility that the death toll may rise. According to the Bolivian Air Force (FAB), a Hercules-type aircraft belonging to Bolivian Air Transport (TAB) crashed onto the Bolivia Bridge during approach and landing maneuvers. A statement released by the FAB through social media confirmed the incident and its devastating consequences. Minister of Health Marcela Flores has indicated that all injured individuals have been transported to various hospitals in the capital. This comes after initial reports from the national fire brigade that noted injured persons without providing detailed figures. The crash not only involved the military aircraft but also led to the destruction of several vehicles, including private vans, minibuses, and trailers, which were struck when the plane went down in the area. Responding to the crisis, emergency protocols were activated by the relevant authorities in collaboration with national forces. In light of the accident, the Aeronautical Accidents Investigation Board (JIAA) has been established — per the express order of the General Command of the Bolivian Air Force — to thoroughly investigate the causes of this aviation disaster. The board has pledged to keep the public informed through official channels as new verifiable information emerges. In a troubling turn of events, the crashed aircraft was reportedly transporting money, prompting a crowd of locals to gather at the scene in hopes of collecting scattered bills. Security forces were forced to deploy chemical agents to disperse the large crowd. Minister Flores expressed her concern over the situation, stating that some ambulances dispatched to assist the victims were attacked amidst the chaos. "It is not possible that while trying to save lives some people act violently," she said, emphasizing the need for prioritizing patient care. Flores further issued a warning that the money transported to the Central Bank of Bolivia is not valid in its current state and urged citizens to stay away from the crash site to ensure the safety of themselves and the rescue teams. "The most important and painful aspect of this event is the impact on human lives and the mourning of families, priorities that must prevail over any material interest," she stated. In response to the crisis, a substantial number of ambulances have been mobilized to the accident site, including five from the health system, two from the National Health Fund, and two from the Oil Workers Health Fund, among others. The Bolivian Executive continues to oversee the situation, ensuring that emergency brigades are actively monitoring and assisting in the aftermath of this tragic event. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2