An explosion at a Bolivian military barracks in Viacha killed at least 10 people and injured dozens more on Friday afternoon.

The blast took place around 2:30 p.m. local time at the General Maintenance Center of the Motorized Air Regiment 2 “Bolívar” in the municipality of Viacha, roughly 30 kilometers from La Paz. Authorities said the detonation originated in an area used to store pyrotechnic material belonging to the defense ministry.

Viacha health director Rita Nebraska told local television that between 10 and 15 people were believed to have died, while 62 others were injured. Fourteen of the wounded, including a girl with third-degree burns, were transferred to hospitals in La Paz. Police reported more than 50 injuries overall and damage to dozens of nearby homes, mostly from shattered windows. Some accounts noted seven people remained missing.

Bolivian Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano stated that the majority of the injured were civilians, with about 50 civilians and six military personnel treated at local medical centers. The ministry confirmed the material was fireworks from its inventory and that the affected area has been secured.

The cause remains under investigation, though officials described the incident as accidental. Firefighters warned of a persistent heat source at the site and urged residents to stay at least 150 meters away to avoid the risk of further explosions. Viacha authorities declared three days of mourning.

Emergency teams, including ambulances, medical personnel, and police, responded to the scene to assess damage and evacuate the wounded. Videos shared on social media showed thick plumes of smoke and residents scrambling for cover.

The incident highlights concerns over the storage of pyrotechnic materials at military facilities near populated areas.