A military training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka on Monday, killing at least 27 people — including students, a teacher, and the pilot — in one of the deadliest air tragedies in the city’s history.
The Chinese-made F-7 BGI fighter jet, on its first solo training flight, reportedly suffered a technical failure shortly after takeoff. Pilot Flight Lt. Toukir Islam attempted to divert the aircraft but was killed in the crash, which triggered a massive fire on the school campus.
More than 170 people were rescued, while 78 remain hospitalized with severe burns, most of them students. Several bodies were charred beyond recognition.
Teacher Maherin Chowdhury, credited with saving over 20 students, later died from her injuries. Survivors recalled tremors, an explosion, and scenes of horror.
The government has declared a national day of mourning. An investigation is ongoing, as condolences pour in from across the globe.
