The news of his death was confirmed by his office and family.
Former Chilean President Sebastián Piñera, who served two terms (2010-2014 and 2018-2022), died this Tuesday following a helicopter crash in which he was involved.
The news was confirmed to BioBioChile by sources close to the former president and later by his office, putting an end to intense speculation.
According to initial reports, the tragic event occurred at 14:57 in the rural sector of Ilihue, as he was leaving the home of his friend José Cox.
The plane, piloted by the former president, took off in the middle of a rainy day in the area and, after a few minutes of flight, lost lift and crashed.
It was later reported that 3 family members were with the former president: a sister, his brother-in-law and a grandson, who managed to get out of the helicopter and reach the coast. However, the pilot who was with the former president did not make it out of the aircraft.
For the time being, it is reported that the fuselage he was in remains at a depth of about 40 metres.
After work by specialised divers, the body of former President Piñera was recovered from the bottom of Lake Ranco.
An investigation is currently underway into the causes of the crash of the Robinson R66 helicopter, which was carrying the C-DgV.
The news has caused an international stir, given the president’s long career. Various political figures and national and international authorities have expressed their condolences at the death of the former president.
National mourning
Gabriel Boric’s government today declared a period of national mourning and organised a state funeral for former president Sebastián Piñera.
“He will receive all the honours and republican recognition he deserves,” said the Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Carolina Tohá, in a brief appearance before the media from the Palacio de la Moneda, seat of the Presidency.
