At least 10 people were killed and dozens injured after an explosion at a military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, about 30 km from La Paz, local authorities said.
Blast tears through military complex
The explosion occurred at around 2:30 pm local time on Friday in an area used to store pyrotechnic material. Authorities said the blast originated from a fireworks stockpile belonging to the defence ministry.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been established.
Viacha health director Rita Nebraska told local television that between 10 and 15 people were believed to have died, while 62 people were injured. Fourteen injured people were transferred to hospitals in La Paz, including a girl who suffered third-degree burns.
Homes damaged as emergency teams rush in
Police said more than 50 people were injured in the incident, while dozens of nearby homes were damaged, mainly after windows were shattered by the force of the blast.
Ambulances, medical teams and police personnel were deployed to the military complex to assess the situation and evacuate the injured to health centres.
Risk of another explosion remains
Authorities warned residents to remain cautious as a heat source was reportedly still present at the site, creating a risk of another explosion.
Nebraska urged people to stay at least 150 metres away from the area while emergency teams continued their response.
Officials have yet to establish the exact cause of the explosion, and further details about the victims and the extent of the damage are expected as authorities assess the scene.