In brief
An F-7 fighter jet from the Bangladesh Air Force crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka, killing at least 31, including several children. Eyewitness accounts reveal the horrifying aftermath of the incident as students and staff bravely rescued others amid chaos and fire. The tragedy has sparked discussions about safety and accountability, as families mourn their losses.
The Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet collided with Milestone School and College in Dhaka, transforming a bustling scene into one of chaos and despair. Witnesses described a traumatic experience, akin to "thunderbolts falling from the sky,” as the plane crashed, claiming at least 31 lives, many of whom were young schoolchildren. The incident occurred while students were waiting for pickups or attending coaching classes, leaving a community in shock.Ahnaf Bin Hasan, an 18-year-old student, recalled the harrowing moment when the jet flew overhead before crashing into the school. "I never heard a sound like that in my life," he recounted as memories of screams and terror still echo in his mind. Reports indicate the aircraft had experienced mechanical failure shortly after takeoff, yet the pilot, who ejected moments before impact, perished later in the hospital.As smoke enveloped the scene, Ahnaf instinctively tried to help fellow students. He bravely ran towards the inferno despite sustaining injuries from the crash's debris. He described scenes of devastation, including children fleeing in panic, their clothes burned away. Amid the chaos, acts of bravery emerged, with staff and students risking their lives to save others.Registrar Syed Billal Hossain recounted the heart-wrenching loss of his niece, Wakia Firdous Nidhi, who was only 11 years old. Her family's search for her body became an agonizing ordeal, further complicated by bureaucratic challenges, despite identifying her through distinctive features.As news spread, stories of miraculous survival and unthinkable loss unfolded. One mother shared how her child escaped death by mere chance, highlighting a parent's worst nightmare. Yet amongst the tragedy, the heroism of teacher Mahreen Chowdhury shone through as she sacrificed herself to save students.In the aftermath, conflicting reports regarding the death toll and injuries added confusion, sparking speculation and concern within the community about accountability. Eyewitnesses remain haunted by the memories of that fateful day, with surreal remnants of trauma lingering in minds young and old. "Every time I look outside, I feel like a fighter jet is coming at me," Ahnaf lamented. The haunting visibility of the school's location near a flight path serves as a chilling reminder to the residents that tragedy could strike from the skies unexpectedly.
