In a resupply operation in the south of Bolívar, an MI17 helicopter of the National Army suffered a fateful accident, leaving nine soldiers dead. The event shocked the region and the country, generating deep mourning in the military community.
The accident occurred when the aircraft lost communication with the base while flying over the municipality of Santa Rosa. Despite the search and rescue efforts deployed by the authorities, the return of the crew to the base was not recorded, which set off the alarms and initiated an emergency protocol.
#Attention | MI helicopter accident of the National Army is confirmed, troops have already arrived in the Guaraperia village, Santa Rosa Sur area of Bolívar. Preliminarily there is talk of at least 9 deaths pic.twitter.com/5cFlDikQIk
— W Radio Colombia (@WRadioColombia) April 29, 2024
Although the cause of the accident has not yet been officially determined, it is presumed that a possible mechanical failure may have triggered the tragedy. Communication with the pilot was lost around 2:50 pm, and minutes later the accident was confirmed, in which all nine crew members lost their lives.
The identification of the deceased soldiers has generated deep regret in the community. Among the victims are Lieutenant Colonel Jesús David Rangel Coronel, Major Edward Andrey Espinosa Rodríguez and Vice First Sergeant Diego Bahamón Ramírez, among other brave men and women who served the country with honor and dedication.
The images of the crashed helicopter, spread through social networks, show the dramatic scenario in which the accident took place. Rescue teams and citizens mobilized to try to help the crew members, but unfortunately, all lives on board were lost in the tragic event.
In the face of this painful tragedy, political leaders have expressed their condolences and solidarity with the families of the deceased soldiers. The mayor of Bogotá, Carlos Fernando Galán, deeply regretted the loss of eight soldiers and sent a message of support to his loved ones and the National Army.
#NoticiaW | These are the soldiers who died after a National Army helicopter accident in Santa Rosa, south of Bolívar pic.twitter.com/m51if5xxf1
— W Radio Colombia (@WRadioColombia) April 29, 2024
However, the accident has also generated criticism of the national government, especially regarding maintenance protocols for military aircraft. Political figures have urged to ensure that all necessary safety measures are followed to avoid tragedies like this in the future.
In the midst of pain and dismay, it is hoped that the authorities will clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident and that due support will be provided to the families of the victims in these difficult times.
2024-04-29 21:43:32