Explosion at Bolivia military base kills at least 10, dozens injured
An explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, has resulted in at least 10 deaths and dozens of injuries. The blast originated in an area used to store pyrotechnic materials.
Why it matters
The incident represents a significant safety failure at a military facility, causing substantial loss of life and local infrastructure damage.
At least 10 people were killed and dozens more injured on Friday (September 4, 2026) after an explosion at a military barracks in the Bolivian municipality of Viacha, about 30 km (19 miles) from La Paz, local authorities said.
The blast occurred at around 2.30 p.m. (1830 GMT) local time in an area used to store pyrotechnic material, authorities said.
While the cause has yet to be established, officials said the blast originated from the defense ministry’s fireworks stockpile.
Viacha health director Rita Nebraska told local television that between 10 and 15 people were believed to have died in the incident, while 62 people were injured. Fourteen of the wounded were transferred to hospitals in La Paz, including a girl with third-degree burns, she said.
Police said more than 50 people were injured and dozens of homes damaged, largely by windows shattered in the blast.
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