Explosion at Santiago School: Students Injured While Preparing for Demonstration
Authorities found remnants of “accelerant liquid” at the accident site, suggesting improper handling of hazardous materials by the students. Oct 23, 2024 Photo: @LeonardoJYar
October 23, 2024 Hour: 10:35 pm
Additionally, 17 other students are in serious condition and have been transferred to various hospitals in the capital.
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At least 35 students were injured, four of them critically, following the explosion of a Molotov cocktail they were manufacturing at the Barros Arana National Boarding School (INBA) in Santiago, Chile.
The incident occurred while the youths, aged between 14 and 18, were preparing to participate in a demonstration outside the school. The explosion took place in one of the school’s bathrooms, resulting in severe burns for several students.
Colonel Fernando Albornoz of Carabineros reported that the four students in critical condition suffered burns to their airways, with damage ranging from 20% to 30%. Additionally, 17 other students are in serious condition and have been transferred to various hospitals in the capital.
Currently, 11 are seriously injured, of whom 4 are at risk of death with 20-30% burns in their airways”
Interior Minister Carolina Tohá described the event as a “tragedy” and emphasized that the use of Molotov cocktails can cause immeasurable harm. She also announced that the Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine if there was any involvement from individuals outside the school.
Authorities found remnants of “accelerant liquid” at the accident site, suggesting improper handling of hazardous materials by the students. Tohá concluded with a call for reflection on the use of such devices in protests, underlining that they are not valid tools for social mobilization.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE
