At least two dead in blast at Bolivia military barracks

ByDanny Aeberhard and Toby Mann.

Key points

• Nebraska remarked there was a risk of further explosion and called on individuals to stay at least 150m away from the military base.
• Police spokesman Roger Roca informed AFP news agency that fireworks had been stored at the barracks, and the cause of the blast remained under investigation.
• At least two individuals have been killed after an explosion at a military barracks in Bolivia but authorities fear the toll could be higher.
• Police remarked dozens of homes had been damaged – largely windows shattered in the blast – and emergency workers are searching the rubble.

Bolivian Defence Minister Ernesto Justiniano remarked at least 58 residents had been injured when "pyrotechnic material" detonated at the barracks, where an artillery regiment is stationed, regarding 14: 30 (18: 30 GMT) on Friday.

Health official Rita Nebraska informed local television between 10 and 15 residents were believed to have died in the incident in Viacha, regarding 30km (19 miles) from La Paz, according to Reuters.

Police spokesman Roger Roca informed AFP news agency that fireworks had been stored at the barracks, and the cause of the blast remained under investigation. Viacha's authorities have declared three days of mourning.

Taken together, the developments around at least two dead in blast at Bolivia military barracks point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.