Former Chilean President Sebastian Pi?ħera, 74, has tragically died in a helicopter crash in Lago Ranco, according to officials. The incident occurred when the helicopter, carrying four people, crashed into Lake Ranco in the southern region of Chile. The country's national disaster agency, SENAPRAD, confirmed the crash and stated that Pi?ħera was the only fatality, while the other three passengers sustained injuries. Interior Minister Carolina Toha revealed in a televised address that the survivors managed to swim to shore. The Chilean Navy later recovered Pi?ħera's body from the wreckage.

Sebastian Pi?ħera was a prominent figure in Chilean politics and served as the country's president from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2022. As a businessman and billionaire, Pi?ħera was credited with steering Chile towards significant economic growth and reducing unemployment during his first term. However, his second term was marked by widespread protests calling for change due to stark economic inequality in the country. In response to the demonstrations, Pi?ħera agreed to hold a vote to rewrite the constitution. Additionally, he led Chile through various natural disasters and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pi?ħera's legacy is a mix of accomplishments and controversies. He played a crucial role in strengthening Chile's democracy after becoming the first conservative leader following the military dictatorship under General Augusto Pinochet. His pro-business policies contributed to economic growth and positioned Chile as a prosperous nation in Latin America. However, his government faced criticism for neglecting the needs of the poor, exacerbating the economic inequality that plagues the country. Pi?ħera left office with low approval ratings both times.

The former president's wealth and business ventures were also notable aspects of his life. He made his fortune as a bank executive and investor in various industries, including airlines, television, and soccer clubs. Pi?ħera introduced credit cards to Chile during the dictatorship and became one of the country's wealthiest individuals, with an estimated fortune of $3 billion. He transitioned into politics, representing the center-right, and ran for president three times before his successful election in 2010.

Pi?ħera's presidency was marked by significant events, such as the devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2010, which claimed the lives of 525 people and led to widespread infrastructure damage. His government prioritized emergency reconstruction efforts in response to the disaster. Another notable event was the successful rescue of 33 miners trapped underground for 69 days in 2010, capturing global attention.

News of Pi?ħera's tragic death has elicited condolences from leaders across the region. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed sadness at Pi?ħera's abrupt passing, while Argentinian President Javier Milei and former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner also sent their condolences. President Gabriel Boric has ordered a state funeral for Pi?ħera and declared a few days of national mourning in honor of the former president's contributions to Chile. The cause of the helicopter crash is currently under investigation, and further details are yet to be released.