Bolivian Military Plane Crashes Near La Paz, 15 Dead

A Bolivian military cargo plane carrying banknotes skidded off the runway near La Paz and crashed into a busy avenue in El Alto, killing at least 15 people and injuring around 30. The C-130 Hercules damaged several vehicles, scattered currency across the road, and prompted emergency and police response while authorities investigate the cause.

A military cargo plane transporting Bolivian banknotes skidded off the runway near La Paz on Friday, crashing into a busy avenue and causing significant casualties and damage. Officials reported that at least 15 people died in the incident and around 30 others were injured. Fire Chief Pavel Tovar stated that it was not immediately clear whether the fatalities occurred on board the aircraft or in the vehicles on the highway in El Alto, a city neighboring the capital.
Footage from social media and local media outlets captured the dramatic moments as the C-130 Hercules transport plane veered off the runway. The aircraft collided with a busy highway, damaging approximately a dozen vehicles, before finally coming to a stop in a nearby field. During the crash, the cargo of Bolivian banknotes spilled across the road, creating chaotic scenes as locals rushed to grab the scattered money. Police forces, equipped in riot gear, attempted to disperse the crowd and maintain order, while firefighters worked to extinguish the flames that erupted from the wreckage.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed the crash but has yet to provide detailed information regarding the cause or the full extent of the casualties. The Bolivian Air Navigation and Airports authority (NAABOL) reported that the plane had departed from the eastern city of Santa Cruz. Initial reports were conflicting, with some suggesting that the aircraft may have crashed either during landing or takeoff, and investigations are expected to clarify the circumstances.
Authorities are closely monitoring the aftermath of the incident, with emergency services providing aid to the injured and clearing the crash site. Bolivia’s central bank is scheduled to address the media later on Friday evening, likely to provide updates regarding the banknotes carried by the plane and any financial implications of the incident. The crash has drawn widespread attention both nationally and internationally due to its unusual nature, the involvement of a military aircraft, and the dramatic scenes of scattered currency on a busy urban highway.