Two explosions rocked the RAM-2 "Bolivar" military barracks in Viacha, Bolivia, at around 14:30 local time on September 5, detonating stored pyrotechnic materials and causing extensive damage [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The blasts originated from black powder in the fireworks stockpile, with a smaller first explosion followed by a larger second detonation, according to Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano [3, 4, 5].

Casualty estimates vary. Officially, the Defense Ministry has confirmed two deaths, while local officials and health authorities estimate between 10 and 15 fatalities [1, 2, 6, 3, 4, 7, 5]. Viacha Health Director Rita Nebraska said, "Between 10 and 15 people were believed to have been killed and 62 others were injured" [2]. Injuries reported range between 58 and 81, including both military personnel and civilians [1, 2, 6, 3, 4, 5]. Fourteen critically injured victims, including a child with third-degree burns, were transferred to hospitals about 30 km away in La Paz [2, 6, 7].

Seven people remained missing after the blast, prompting ongoing search efforts [6, 3, 4, 5]. Several nearby homes suffered damage, primarily shattered windows from the explosive shockwave [1, 2, 6, 7]. Authorities urged residents to stay at least 150 meters away from the barracks due to the risk of further explosions. "There is a risk of further explosion," said Rita Nebraska [1, 6].

The Viacha local government declared three days of mourning following the disaster [1, 3, 4, 5]. President Rodrigo Paz expressed deep solidarity with victims' families and directed a thorough investigation into the cause and safety protocol compliance. He said, "We must establish with absolute clarity the causes of this event, verify compliance with safety protocols and determine any responsibilities that may arise" [3, 4, 5]. Defense Minister Justiniano emphasized, "At this time, our priority is people: caring for the injured, supporting their families, and continuing search and verification efforts" [4].

The investigation into the storage and handling of pyrotechnic materials at the barracks is underway. Residents remain cautious as emergency services continue treating the injured and searching for the missing.

The three-day mourning period will continue through September 8, with authorities maintaining a safety perimeter around the military base.