Bolivian authorities on Monday (September 7, 2026) confirmed that nine people have died following an explosion at a military barracks in the municipality of Viacha, about 30 km from La Paz, on Friday (September 4).

The Defence Ministry said a ninth body was recovered from the rubble on Monday afternoon and transferred to the morgue for identification. Army Commander Hector Alarcón said an even greater tragedy was averted because many personnel from the Bolivar Regiment were away on a recreational bicycle ride when the explosion occurred.

Authorities did not say how many people remain missing. “Our priority remains finding our comrades who are still missing and providing answers to their families as soon as possible,” Mr. Alarcón said at a press conference earlier on Monday.

Health Minister Marcela Flores said 84 people had been treated since Friday’s blast, with 31 still hospitalised. President Rodrigo Paz said the cause of the explosion was under investigation, but it appeared to have been an accident caused by the improper handling of explosives stored at the military facility.

“Our Armed Forces are reviewing their protocols and everything needed to provide greater safety, not only for enlisted personnel and officers, but also for nearby residents living close to military bases,” Paz said. He also announced a period of national mourning and urged people not to politicise the tragedy.

The blast occurred at around 2.30 p.m. on Friday in an area used to store pyrotechnic material, authorities said.