Tragedy struck in Chile as former President Sebastián Piñera, a prominent conservative politician and billionaire businessman, lost his life in a helicopter crash in the southern region of the country.
The office of the 74-year-old former president confirmed his death, expressing deep sorrow and announcing that details regarding his funeral arrangements would be provided in the coming days.
According to Chile’s interior minister, the helicopter crash involved four individuals, with three surviving the incident while Mr. Piñera succumbed to his injuries. The army promptly recovered his body from the crash site.
Sebastián Piñera served as Chile’s president twice, from 2010 to 2014 and then from 2018 until last year, leaving a significant mark on the country’s political landscape. Additionally, he was renowned as one of Chile’s wealthiest individuals, with a successful career as a businessman before entering politics.
His sudden demise has prompted an outpouring of tributes from politicians across South America. Former Argentinian President Mauricio Macri expressed “immense sadness,” describing Piñera’s passing as an “irreplaceable loss.” Similarly, former Colombian President Ivan Duque conveyed his deep sorrow, highlighting the strong bond of friendship he shared with Piñera.
The tragic helicopter crash has sent shockwaves through Chile and beyond, as the nation mourns the loss of a respected leader and influential figure in South American politics and business.