At least 12 individuals lost their lives in a plane crash that occurred in the Puente Bolivia region of El Alto, Bolivia, as per a local news report. The incident involved a Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft that crashed on Friday, February 27, leaving six others injured.
Reports from Diario El Potosí indicate significant damage to motor vehicles in the vicinity due to the crash. Authorities responded by temporarily halting all flights to and from the terminal. Bolivian Air Force General Sergio Lora mentioned that two crew members of the plane remained unaccounted for as of late Friday.
Further details reveal that police and military personnel took action to destroy cash boxes in the presence of the central bank president. The Central Bank President, David Espinoza, clarified that the bills had no legal value as they were never in circulation. Despite this, a large crowd attempted to collect the scattered bills, hampering rescue operations, according to Fire Chief Pavel Tovar.
Tragically, Fire Chief Pavel Tovar confirmed that the death toll had risen to at least 15 individuals. The aircraft, reportedly transporting new banknotes, crashed shortly after takeoff, leading to bills strewn across the crash site. Images circulated on social media captured the chaotic scene as people rushed to grab the money.
Debris from the plane, cars, and human bodies were scattered across the road, with Fire Chief Pavel Tovar estimating the involvement of at least 15 vehicles in the incident. The aircraft skidded off the runway, striking vehicles in El Alto before coming to a stop in an open field.
Authorities have yet to specify whether the casualties were aboard the aircraft or in the vehicles near the crash site. The cargo plane, carrying money, crashed moments after takeoff, dispersing bills on the ground. Emergency responders are actively engaged in rescue efforts at the scene, as reported by local media.
The ongoing event continues to unfold, and updates will be provided as the situation develops.
