Overview

• The blast occurred during a student 'volcano' demonstration at Instituto Comercial Rancagua in Rancagua, Pergamino, hurling fragments that caused cuts, burns and contusions.
• Hospital Garrahan reported the child underwent surgery and remains in intensive care with a reserved prognosis, while a 45-year-old teacher sustained a serious ocular injury and was operated on.
• Most of the remaining 16 injured, largely students, were stabilized at local hospitals and discharged after observation for trauma and mild intoxication symptoms.
• Video from the event shows a student describing two metal tubes filled with sulfur, charcoal and a 'special salt'—a mix consistent with basic gunpowder—now under forensic analysis.
• Fiscal Fernando Pertierra ordered peritajes, sealed the school and seized evidence as authorities examine potential negligence and institutional responsibility, with local officials signaling possible charges for school leadership.