How Did 10 Mine Workers Die in a Minibus Plunge on the Irupana Highway in Bolivia?

What happened on the road to Irupana?

A minibus transporting workers from the 15 de Agosto mine plunged between 20 and 25 metres down an embankment beside the Irupana highway on Monday, 12 October 2026, according to El Deber.

The crash happened in the Tres Ríos sector of the highway, in Sud Yungas province, La Paz, Bolivia. The vehicle left the carriageway and fell down a steep terraplén to the side of the road.

How many people died?

The death toll rose from 7 to 10, according to the latest police report cited by El Deber.

The increase was confirmed as rescue and recovery work continued at the crash site.

Who were the victims?

• The passengers were workers from the 15 de Agosto mine, travelling together in the minibus when it left the road.
• Police had not released the individual identities of the victims in the initial reports.

What caused the crash?

The departmental commander of the La Paz Police, Colonel Ricardo Terrazas, said the presumed cause was adverse weather conditions.

Traffic police remained at the scene gathering further evidence, and the investigation was still under way.

Frequently asked questions

Where did the crash happen?

In the Tres Ríos sector on the highway to Irupana, in Sud Yungas province, La Paz, Bolivia.

When did it happen?

On Monday, 12 October 2026. El Deber published its updated report at 17:28 that afternoon.

How many people died?

Ten, according to the latest police report — up from an initial count of seven.

Who was travelling in the minibus?

Workers from the 15 de Agosto mine. Their individual identities had not been released in the first reports.

What caused the minibus to leave the road?

Police commander Ricardo Terrazas said adverse weather conditions were the presumed cause, though traffic investigators were still collecting evidence at the scene.