Tragedy Strikes as Former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera Dies in Helicopter Crash
In a devastating incident on Tuesday, Chilean ex-President Sebastian Pinera lost his life in a helicopter crash, plunging the nation into grief and prompting an outpouring of condolences from leaders across Latin America.
The fatal crash occurred when the helicopter, carrying the 74-year-old Pinera and three other passengers, crashed into a lake in southern Chile. Despite rescue efforts, Pinera was pronounced dead shortly after the authorities reached the scene, while the other three occupants managed to survive.
While two sources have informed Reuters that Pinera was piloting the helicopter, official confirmation of this and details regarding the intended destination are yet to be provided by authorities. Pinera, who served two non-consecutive terms from 2010 to 2022, was known for frequently piloting his own helicopter during the Southern Hemisphere summers near Chile’s scenic southern lakes.
President Gabriel Boric declared a three-day national mourning period, and preparations are underway for a state funeral scheduled for Friday to honor the former leader. Interior Minister Carolina Toha confirmed the recovery of Pinera’s body from the lake, situated near the town of Lago Ranco.
Former two-time Chilean President Sebastián Piñera died in a helicopter crash, the government said Tuesday afternoon. In a national address, Interior Minister Carolina Tohá said Piñera was killed and three people escaped. https://t.co/hichAw76jY
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) February 7, 2024
Toha, who has been actively involved in combating recent deadly wildfires, highlighted Pinera’s dedication to public service as she expressed condolences. Pinera gained international recognition for overseeing the remarkable rescue of 33 miners trapped beneath the Atacama desert in 2010. The event garnered global attention and was later adapted into the 2014 movie “The 33.”