At least 23 people, including children, have died in a devastating fire at a discount store in Hermosillo, a city in northwest Mexico. Several others were injured, suffering burns and smoke inhalation.
The tragedy struck on Saturday evening local time in the city center, casting a shadow of mourning across the nation during the festive weekend of the “Day of the Dead.”
Alfonso Durazo, Governor of Sonora, stated on social media:
“I have ordered a full and transparent investigation into the cause of this incident. Several of the deceased are children.”
Gustavo Salas, the state Attorney General, reported that preliminary forensic findings indicate that most victims died from inhaling toxic smoke.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum extended her deepest condolences to the families of the victims and directed a special rescue and rehabilitation team to assist those affected.
The Sonora Red Cross confirmed that at least 40 personnel and 10 ambulances took part in the rescue operations, and the injured were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. Local media have suggested the possibility of an electrical fault. Authorities emphasized that the store, part of the popular discount chain “Waldo’s,” was not targeted in any attack.
The chief of Hermosillo Fire Service noted that investigations are also underway to determine whether any explosions occurred at the scene.