An explosion at a military installation in the Bolivian municipality of Viacha on Friday killed at least 10 people and injured dozens. Authorities linked the afternoon blast to a stockpile of fireworks and pyrotechnic material stored at the base, which is located about 30 kilometres from La Paz. The force of the explosion shattered windows and damaged dozens of nearby civilian homes.
Local health officials warned that the death toll could rise, with some reports indicating more than 60 injuries and several missing people. Firefighters at the scene noted that a lingering heat source created the risk of a secondary explosion, which complicated rescue and recovery efforts. Officials confirmed the materials were pyrotechnic stock for official or ceremonial displays rather than conventional munitions, though the precise cause of the blast remains undetermined.
Search and rescue teams searched the wreckage for survivors and the missing while warning residents to stay away from the area. The incident has prompted an investigation into the storage and safety protocols of the flammable material at the facility. Officials have promised a full accounting of the cause once emergency and recovery operations finish.