In brief
A blast at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, on September 4, 2026, killed at least two people and injured about 58. The explosion was caused by pyrotechnic material stored at the facility, and health officials estimate 10–15 fatalities. Local police reported damage to numerous homes and urged residents to keep a safe distance. The incident prompted authorities to declare a three‑day mourning period.
At least two people were killed and around 58 were injured when "pyrotechnic material" detonated at an artillery regiment’s barracks in Viacha, about 30km from La Paz, on Friday at 14:30 local time.
Bolivian Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano said the blast threw off fireworks stored at the base, while health official Rita Nebraska reported that 10‑15 people might have died in the incident.
Police warned that further explosions were possible and urged civilians to stay at least 150 metres away from the military installation.
Dozens of houses suffered damage, largely from shattered windows, and emergency teams are currently searching the rubble for survivors. Meanwhile, Viacha authorities have declared a three‑day mourning period.
