URGENT UPDATE: A devastating crash involving a Bangladesh Air Force jet has claimed at least 19 lives and left over 160 others injured after the aircraft collided with the Milestone School and College in Dhaka on Monday, October 23, 2023. This incident marks the deadliest airplane crash in the Bangladeshi capital in years, prompting immediate investigations.
The military reports that the F-7 BGI jet, a training variant of a Chinese fighter aircraft, took off at 1:06 PM local time and crashed shortly thereafter, igniting a fierce fire upon impact. Eyewitnesses and officials confirm that the jet struck the school campus, which is home to approximately 2,000 students, during afternoon classes.
Local authorities have stated that among the deceased is the pilot of the jet. Many of the injured are reported to be students who were present on campus at the time of the crash. Rafiqa Taha, a student who was not on site, expressed her shock and concern, highlighting the school’s commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence over its two-decade history.
The Uttara neighborhood, where the incident occurred, is a bustling area in northern Dhaka, a metropolitan hub with a population exceeding 20 million. The school is known for its focus on career counseling and global opportunities, making this tragedy particularly impactful for the community.
As rescue operations continue, the cause of the crash remains unclear. Military officials have launched an investigation, and updates are expected to follow as more information becomes available. The emotional toll on families and the community is palpable, as many process the loss and the injuries suffered by their loved ones.
This developing story underscores the urgent need for answers regarding aviation safety in Bangladesh. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to unveil the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and share your thoughts on social media as the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event.
