In brief
A fire erupted at a Waldo's discount store in Hermosillo, Mexico, on Saturday, leading to the tragic deaths of 23 individuals, including children. Local authorities reported at least 11 injuries and are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the blaze, which has been described as an explosion. Officials have ruled out any intentions of violence or terrorist acts. The incident coincided with Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations, and the state government has canceled cultural events in response to the tragedy.
A fire that broke out at a discount shop in Mexico has killed at least 23 people and injured 11 others, local officials say.
The blaze broke out on Saturday in the centre of the north-western city of Hermosillo at a branch of Waldo's - Mexico's largest discount chain.
Multiple local authorities described the incident as an explosion, though regional Governor Alfonso Durazo said the exact cause had yet to be determined. The Sonora state public security secretariat ruled out the possibility it was an attack or act of deliberate violence against civilians.
Children are among the victims, including a 15-year-old girl who was hospitalized.
Images from the scene show thick, black smoke billowing from the building, with the flames appearing to have spread to cars parked in front of the shop.
After the fire was extinguished, scorch marks could be seen rising from the shop's doors and windows, one of which appeared completely destroyed, with a burnt-out car in front of it.
To the families who lost a loved one... I share your pain and offer you my full solidarity, Durazo said in a video address. He added that an extraordinary, transparent and thorough investigation had been launched to clarify the causes of the incident and determine who was responsible.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.
Waldo's shops are a common sight on Mexico high streets, with hundreds of outlets across the country. The fire occurred during the weekend of Mexico's Day of the Dead, a time for honoring deceased loved ones, causing the state government to cancel planned cultural events.
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