Dhaka, July 22, 2025 (V7N) – President Md. Shahabuddin has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the tragic loss of lives following the crash of a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BJI fighter jet at Milestone School and College in Uttara’s Diabari area.

The condolence message, signed by Muhammad Nesar Uddin Jewel, Deputy Secretary of the President’s Public Affairs Division, was issued on Monday. The President prayed for eternal peace for the departed souls and extended heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families. He also wished a swift recovery for the injured.

The death toll from the crash has risen to 27, with 78 individuals receiving treatment at various hospitals. So far, 20 bodies have been handed over to families.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the fighter jet crashed into a two-story school building shortly after taking off from the AK Khandaker Air Force Base in Kurmitola at 1:06 pm. The Fire Service and Civil Defense were alerted at 1:18 pm. The Chinese-made FT-7 BGI fighter jet, used for training, reportedly crashed due to a mechanical fault.

The building caught fire immediately after impact, with anguished cries filling the area as children were trapped and families searched desperately. Initial reports indicate that at least 171 people were injured in the devastating incident.

END/RH/AJ