Dhaka: An aviation disaster struck Bangladesh when a fighter jet from the Bangladesh Air Force crashed into a two-story school building, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and numerous students. The pilot attempted to steer the aircraft away from residential areas but was unable to prevent the crash. Eyewitnesses reported that the crash was abrupt and intense, comparing the impact to an earthquake followed by a fire outbreak.
According to Deutsche Welle, rescue operations were ongoing throughout the afternoon as helicopters transported victims with severe burns to local hospitals. Families of the victims gathered anxiously, some offering blood donations in a bid to aid the injured. A relative described the distressing scene of victims with severe injuries, while an injured child recounted the horrifying moments when classmates were trying to extinguish flames on the floor.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the mechanical failure suspected to have caused the crash. In light of the tragedy, the government has announced a national day of mourning on Tuesday, marking this as one of the most devastating aviation disasters the country has faced in years.