On the morning of March 23, 2026, a devastating military aircraft accident occurred shortly after takeoff in Colombia, claiming at least 66 lives and leaving many others injured. The incident took place in Puerto Leguízamo, where a C-130 Hercules aircraft was transporting personnel from the National Army and the National Police.
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According to Colombia’s Air Force, the aircraft departed at approximately 9:54 a.m. local time, with reports indicating it was carrying around 128 individuals onboard, which included 115 soldiers, 11 crew members, and two police officers. Tragically, the plane encountered difficulties shortly after departure, resulting in a crash that has shocked the nation.
General Hugo Alejandro López Barreto, the head of Colombia’s armed forces, labelled the incident a “tragic accident.” He detailed that the initial reports confirmed the losses included 58 soldiers, two police officers, and six personnel from the air force. Authorities have stated that at least four military personnel remain unaccounted for following the crash, raising concerns for their families and the military community.
In a statement, López Barreto expressed his condolences and remarked, “Sadly, as a consequence of this tragic accident, 66 of our military elements died.” He further mentioned that there was currently no evidence to suggest that the crash was the result of an attack by illegal armed groups, which have troubled the region in the past.
Efforts to aid survivors of the incident have seen 57 individuals evacuated from the crash site and taken to local hospitals for medical treatment. Rescue and recovery teams have been deployed, working tirelessly to locate those still missing. The Colombian government has committed to providing support for the victims’ families and ensuring those affected receive necessary medical care.
The Colombian Air Force confirmed in a follow-up announcement that six members from their personnel lost their lives in the crash. The victims were identified as Lieutenant Colonel Amador Pinilla Juan Pablo, Major Jaime Alexander Fernández Camargo, Major Natalia Rojas Velandia, Second Lieutenant Julian David Gonzalez Herrera, First Technician Méndez Torres Javier Fernando, and Second Technician Pinzón Reyes Jhonathan Stid. The Air Force extended heartfelt condolences to all affected, recognising the dedication and commitment of their lost comrades to service and duty.
Colombia’s Defence Minister, Pedro Sánchez, acknowledged the tragedy through a post on social media platform X, stating, “With deep sorrow, I report that a Hercules aircraft from our Fuerza Aérea suffered a tragic accident while taking off from Puerto Leguízamo.” He affirmed that military units were dispatched to the scene to begin response operations, and although the number of victims was still being assessed, the exact cause of the crash remained unknown at the time.
In comments from the Commander of Colombia’s Air Force, Carlos Fernando Silva, it was indicated that the plane had experienced technical difficulties shortly after taking off. Further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is currently underway, with authorities seeking to ascertain the details that led to this tragic event.
As the nation mourns the loss of military personnel, families and friends of the deceased are coming to terms with the gravity of this incident. Support services are anticipated to be made available to assist those who have been affected, as a country grapples with the implications of such a catastrophic event.
The Colombian government has pledged a thorough investigation into the accident and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Rescue operations remain a priority as the search for additional survivors and the recovery of victims continues in the remote region.