Dhaka— Bangladesh observed a national day of mourning today following the tragic military jet crash at Milestone School and College in Dhaka’s Uttara area, as the official death toll rose to 25. The victims include 24 civilians — mostly students — and the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Md. Toukir Islam Sagar.
The fatal crash, which occurred shortly after 1:00 pm on Monday, saw a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training jet slam into the school’s academic building following a reported technical malfunction during a routine training flight. The impact caused a massive explosion, engulfing classrooms in flames and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
In an emotional response, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, President Shahabuddin Chuppu, and Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus offered condolences to the grieving families and expressed solidarity with the injured. Flags were flown at half-mast nationwide, and prayer services were held in schools, mosques, and public offices.
Hospitals in Dhaka remain under strain, with over 170 people injured in the crash — many still receiving treatment at the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute and other facilities. Medical officials have confirmed that more than 20 victims are in critical condition, mostly suffering from severe burns and blunt trauma. Grief-stricken parents have continued to gather at hospitals, praying for their children's recovery and identifying those lost.
Rescue operations were completed late last night, with search teams confirming no further bodies were trapped in the wreckage. The school campus, now sealed off by military and police, has been declared a disaster zone. Structural engineers have begun assessing the damage to determine whether any parts of the building can be salvaged.
The Bangladesh Air Force has announced a high-level inquiry into the crash. Preliminary reports suggest a catastrophic engine failure led the pilot to lose control. Witnesses say the pilot appeared to make a last-second maneuver to avoid the main school buildings, potentially saving dozens more lives.
Today, classes at Milestone School and College remain suspended indefinitely, and grief counselling sessions are being arranged for students and staff. In neighborhoods across Dhaka, candlelight vigils were held last night, as the city reels from the shocking loss of young lives.
The nation continues to come to terms with one of the worst aviation tragedies in its civilian history, with tributes pouring in from across the country and the international community. As investigations progress, the focus remains on supporting survivors, grieving families, and ensuring accountability for the devastating incident.