Mexico tragedy: 20+ people burn alive in massive store blaze
Witnesses described horrifying scenes from the fire (Illustrative photo: facebook.com/DSNS.GOV.UA)
A large fire broke out in a department store in Mexico, killing more than 20 people and injuring 12 others, according to El País.
The tragedy occurred on November 1 in the town of Hermosillo, Sonora state. The fire erupted after an explosion inside the department store.
At least 23 people have been confirmed dead and 12 injured. Witnesses described horrifying scenes, including victims running out while engulfed in flames.
The outlet reports that the tragedy could have been even worse. Firefighters said that thanks to the timely intervention of emergency services, the fire was prevented from spreading to neighboring businesses.
Authorities in Sonora have ruled out any violent cause, such as a terrorist attack.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also reacted to the tragedy, expressing condolences to the victims’ families on social media.
The Hermosillo city council has suspended all Day of the Dead events in the municipality.
“The 7th annual Day of the Dead festival, as well as the ‘Catrina’ contest and parade scheduled for today, are suspended as a sign of solidarity with those affected by the tragic store fire in the city center,” the council said.
As reported earlier, a powerful explosion recently occurred at the largest oil refinery in New Mexico, US - a thick column of smoke rose over the city of Artesia, injuring several people.
In another incident, a major fire broke out at a chemical plant in Passaic, New Jersey.
