Milestone School authorities ‘thank’ those who extended ‘support’ after jet crash

The school says only a small number of students were present at the time as classes had already ended

Milestone School and College has extended “heartfelt gratitude” to everyone who offered “assistance” in the aftermath of the Bangladesh Air Force jet crash on its campus in Dhaka’s Diabari.

In a written statement issued on Thursday, the institution said: “We sincerely thank all individuals, organisations, and institutions who have extended their support in rescue, communication, service, and treatment efforts from the very beginning of this disaster.

“We also extend heartfelt thanks to all media outlets and journalists who have presented this incident from a humane perspective,” it added.

The fighter jet crashed onto the school premises on Monday afternoon, killing 31 people, 30 of whom were students, teachers or guardians.

Milestone authorities delivered their formal response to the tragedy on Thursday.

According to the school, 51 people were seriously injured in the crash, including 40 students, seven teachers, one parent, one female attendant and one peon.

Authorities said they formed an internal investigation committee on Jul 22.

“In line with this, we are only providing data related to casualties among our institution's students, staff and guardians. The process of updating information is ongoing,” the statement read.

They also clarified that their report covers only those directly connected to the institution, while overall casualty figures are being compiled by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The statement said the aircraft crashed between 1:12pm and 1:14pm.

“As school ended at 1pm, only a limited number of students were waiting for their guardians when this heartbreaking accident took place.”

The institution expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and assured full support for the treatment and needs of the injured.