SANTOSTILO DOZENS DEAD AFTER BANGLADESH JET CRASHES INTO SCHOOL BUILDING

Dozens Dead After Bangladesh Air Force Jet Crashes into School

On July 21, 2025, a Bangladesh Air Force F‑7 BGI training jet crashed into the Milestone School & College in Uttara, Dhaka, killing at least 27 people, including 25 children, a teacher, and the pilot. Over 100 others were injured, many critically, as the aircraft burst into flames upon impact.

The Crash

The jet took off from BAF Base Bir Uttom A. K. Khandker at 1:06 PM local time and reportedly suffered a mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. According to military officials, the pilot—Flight Lieutenant Md. Toukir Islam—tried to steer the aircraft away from populated areas, but it ultimately crashed into a two‑storey school building, triggering an intense fir.

 Casualties & Injuries

  • Confirmed deaths include 25 children, one teacher, and the pilot, all pulled from the wreckage.

  • A total of at least 27 fatalities have been reported, and some counts mention up to 31.

  • Authorities estimate around 171 people were injured, mostly students, with 78 hospitalized and many in severe condition due to burns

Heroic Rescue Efforts

Tragically, displayed extraordinary courage. She reportedly rescued over 20 students from the burning school before succumbing to near-total burn injuries in the hospital. Her brother reflected that she repeatedly entered burning classrooms despite knowing the danger.

Eyewitness Accounts

Survivors and teachers described a scene of chaos: smoke thick enough to choke hallways, children trapped under debris, and frantic evacuations. Rescue personnel and teachers carried students to safety. Students barricaded themselves in the yard, many requiring immediate medical attention.

Rescue Operations

Multiple fire units, ambulances, and army teams were deployed swiftly. Hospitals including the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Uttara hospitals, and private facilities treated the injured. A blood donation drive was organized to support the influx of burn victims .

Aircraft & Safety Concerns

The involved aircraft, the Chinese-manufactured F‑7 BGI, is part of a fleet of 16 jets delivered to Bangladesh between 2011 and 2013—raised concerns about aging equipment and safety. The incident highlighted risks associated with flight training in proximity to schools.

Government Response

The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, declared July 22 a national day of mourning, with flags flown at half-staff. A high-level investigation committee has been established to probe the crash. Officials have pledged full medical support and compensation to affected families.

Countries like India have extended assistance—sending teams of burn specialists and nurses to support medical efforts.

Public Reaction & Protests

Angry students and parents gathered in protest at the crash site, demanding accountability, release of accurate casualty lists, and a ban on outdated training aircraft. The protests were met with baton charges and tear gas; reports indicate roughly 80 protestors were injured.

Final Reflections

This crash stands as one of Bangladesh’s most tragic aviation disasters, with young lives lost and widespread trauma. It has reignited urgency around air force training protocols, flight safety zones, and modernizing aircraft fleets. Calls for structural reforms and strict oversight now underscore the outrage and grief of a nation in mourning.

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