Former Chilean President Sebastián Piñera died Tuesday in a helicopter crash at Lago Ranco, a resort 920 km south of the capital Santiago, his office said.
“It is with deep regret that we announce the death of the former President of the Republic of Chile, Sebastián Piñera Echeñique,” at the age of 74, according to a press release. Three other people who were with him in the helicopter survived the accident, according to the same source.
“He will receive all the Republican honors and recognition he deserves”
The former president served two non-consecutive terms, between 2010 and 2014, then between 2018 and 2022. He was the first right-wing leader to be elected after the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet (1973-1990).
“He will receive all the republican honors and the recognition he deserves,” declared Interior Minister Carolina Tohá, from the government of left-wing President Gabriel Boric, as soon as the death was announced.
Sebastián Piñera, a savvy businessman, often traveled in his own helicopter. He was a former shareholder in the country’s national airline, with stakes in a television network and other businesses.