CHILDREN were among 23 people killed after an explosion and fire tore through supermarket in Mexico.
The blaze hit a Waldo’s discount store in the northwestern town of Hermosillo as the country marked the Day of the Dead.
A blast ripped through the downtown store around 3pm local time on Saturday, sending thick black smoke billowing over the city as terrified shoppers fled.
Footage posted online showed flames engulfing the building, frantic evacuations, and firefighters battling the blaze amid charred cars and a soot-covered façade.
Authorities said the fire destroyed the store and damaged nearby buildings.
At least 12 people were injured, many in serious condition.
Sonora’s governor, Alfonso Durazo, confirmed that children and two pregnant women were among the victims.
Durazo said in a statement: “I have ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to clarify the causes of the accident,”
He added that emergency crews and hospitals were working around the clock to treat survivors.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences on social media, writing: “My heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.”
She said she had dispatched federal teams to assist victims’ families.
Gustavo Salas, Sonora’s attorney general, said most of the deaths appeared to have been caused by inhalation of toxic gases.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, though local media cited possible electrical failure.
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