Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Bolivian Military C-130 Crashes on Landing at El Alto, Death Toll Rises to 22

Officials opened an inquiry into the landing failure, declaring the scattered cash legally void.

Overview

  • The transport plane from Santa Cruz overshot the runway at El Alto International Airport and struck a nearby roadway, destroying vehicles.
  • Police now report 22 fatalities, including four children, and the Health Ministry counts 37 injured patients as hospitals appeal for blood donations.
  • Crowds rushed to collect banknotes from the cargo, prompting police to use tear gas and water jets; prosecutors reported looting in the area with 12 arrests.
  • Authorities burned cash boxes overnight and warned that the notes lacked official numbering and carry no legal value.
  • Airport operations were temporarily suspended as a commission of inquiry reviews the crash, with witnesses citing heavy hail and lightning at the time.