Colombian authorities say a military Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules carrying 126 people crashed shortly after departing Puerto Leguizamo, killing 69 and injuring 57. The injured have been taken to hospitals across the region. The remains of the deceased will be identified by forensic officials in Bogota and returned to their families. Officials say the cause of the crash is under investigation.
Colombian Military C-130 Crash Kills 69, Injures 57 After Puerto Leguizamo Takeoff
Members of the military gather at the site of a Colombian military plane crash in Puerto Leguizamo, Putumayo, Colombia March 23, 2026. La Voz de Amazonia/Mare Rafue/Handout via REUTERS
Colombian authorities confirmed that a Lockheed Martin-built C-130 Hercules transport plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Puerto Leguizamo, killing 69 people and injuring 57 others.
What Happened
The military aircraft was carrying 126 people when it went down after departing Puerto Leguizamo, a town on Colombia's border with Peru. The injured have been taken to hospitals across the region for treatment.
Casualties and Response
Armed Forces officials said 69 people died in the crash. The remains of those killed will be transferred to forensic officials in Bogota for identification before being returned to their families. Emergency crews and medical teams responded at the scene and continue to assist survivors and relatives.
Investigation Under Way
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Officials have not yet released details about potential mechanical failure, weather conditions or other factors; investigators will examine the wreckage and flight records as part of their inquiry.
Reporting: Details in this report are based on a statement from Colombia's armed forces and reporting by Reuters.
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