SANTIAGO, Chile, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Clashes broke out in the streets of the Chilean capital following word former dictator Gen. Augusto Pinochet had died, El Mercurio reported Monday.
Pinochet -- who recently suffered a heart attack -- died Sunday at 91.
He was hospitalized last week after his latest of many health setbacks, and underwent surgery to repair an artery. Physicians, however, maintained the aged ex-strongman was recovering from the heart attack and operation.
Pinochet was revered by supporters for stabilizing Chile, but reviled by opponents for toppling a legitimate government in 1973 and crushing human rights.
Detractors danced in the streets and celebrated his passing, though some expressed remorse that he was not brought to justice.
At the time of his death, Pinochet was under house arrest while being investigated for his alleged role in a number of human rights abuses that included the ordered torture of political dissidents during his 17-year regime (1973-1990).
During that time more than 3,000 people were killed or disappeared and thousands more were subject to state torture and prolonged detention.
Chilean officials said Pinochet will not receive a state funeral though will be buried Tuesday with military honors.
