Former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera Dies in Helicopter Crash

Sebastian Pinera

Santiago, The Gulf Observer: Tragedy struck Chile on Tuesday as former President Sebastian Pinera, aged 74, lost his life in a helicopter crash in the southern part of the country, according to information from three reliable sources reported to Reuters. Pinera served as the President of Chile for two terms, from 2010-2014 and 2018-2022.

Earlier reports from local media indicated the passing of the former president, which has now been corroborated by two current government officials and a former adviser to Pinera who confirmed the unfortunate incident to Reuters. The former adviser stated that Pinera did not survive the crash, but three other individuals on board the helicopter were successfully rescued.

According to government sources cited by news outlet La Tercera, four people were aboard the helicopter at the time of the crash. First responders have located and rescued three of the occupants.

Chile’s national disaster agency SENAPRAD has officially confirmed the occurrence of a helicopter crash in the southern town of Lago Ranco. The agency reported that one person, presumably Sebastian Pinera, has been confirmed deceased, while three others sustained injuries.

As details emerge, the government has not yet released the names of the individuals onboard the ill-fated helicopter. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across Chile, and the nation mourns the loss of a former leader who played a significant role in shaping its recent political history.

The circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash are under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the cause of the tragic incident. The Chilean government is expected to release further information as the investigation progresses.