In brief
At least 19 individuals have lost their lives and more than 100 have sustained injuries after a Bangladeshi air force training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka. Eyewitness footage depicts a scene engulfed in flames and smoke following the crash. The Bangladesh Air Force confirmed that its F-7 BGI training aircraft was involved in the incident, which occurred shortly after it took off at approximately 1:06 PM local time.
Reports indicate that over 50 victims, including children and adults, have been admitted to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery for severe burns. The mortality toll is expected to escalate, as official numbers concerning casualties vary. Eyewitness accounts from both teachers and students describe the harrowing moment of impact, with one teacher noting that he saw the plane hit the building "directly" in front of him.In response to the tragedy, Muhammad Yunus, the leader of Bangladesh's interim government, promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. He declared the incident as a moment of profound sorrow for the nation and called for all necessary assistance to be provided to the affected families. "I wish the injured a speedy recovery and instruct all authorities, including the hospitals concerned, to deal with the situation with utmost importance," he remarked on a social media platform.As the nation mourns, discussions surrounding aviation safety and emergency response protocols are likely to gain prominence in the aftermath of this devastating event.
