WASHINGTON (TNND) — A military transport plane crashed in Putumayo, Colombia, on Monday, killing at least 66 and injuring dozens more.
The Hercules C-130, carrying 128 individuals including 115 members of the Colombian army, went down shortly after takeoff from Puerto Leguízamo. General Hugo Alejandro López Barreto confirmed that four military personnel remain missing and recovery efforts continue.
Authorities reported that the victims were transported to a local morgue; medical aid was provided at nearby clinics before patients were airlifted to larger hospitals. Deputy Mayor Carlos Claros praised community members for their prompt assistance.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez called the incident a “tragic accident” and offered condolences to the victims' families, urging against speculation. He noted that the aircraft was deemed “airworthy” and that the crash occurred approximately 1.5 kilometers from the aerodrome.
Witnesses reported the sound of detonating ammunition from the plane, which sparked a fire at the crash site. General Carlos Fernando Silva Rueda stated that a technical investigation, supported by the U.S. Air Force, will examine the crash's cause.
Two planes equipped with 74 beds were dispatched to transport the injured to Bogotá. Following the incident, President Gustavo Petro reiterated his call for military modernization and accountability for bureaucratic hurdles. Critics have pointed to budget cuts affecting flight operations under his administration.
The C-130 was reportedly donated by the U.S. in 2020 and underwent a thorough inspection and maintenance shortly thereafter.