Post by : Rameen Ariff

At least 23 people, including several children, were killed after a powerful explosion tore through a supermarket in the northern Mexican city of Hermosillo on Saturday. Authorities believe the blast was accidental, likely caused by a faulty electrical transformer inside the store.

Sonora state governor Alfonso Durazo confirmed the rising death toll in a video message, expressing grief over the loss of life. “Sadly, a number of the victims we’ve found were minors,” Durazo said, adding that a full investigation had been launched to determine the exact cause of the incident and identify those responsible.

Gustavo Salas, the state prosecutor, stated that most victims died from toxic gas inhalation following the explosion. “We are continuing the identification process, and unfortunately, among the deceased are minors,” he said. Salas added that 12 people were injured and are receiving treatment at local hospitals.

The explosion occurred at a Waldo’s store in Hermosillo’s city center. Footage and images shared on social media showed the building’s front blackened by fire, shattered glass windows, and emergency crews battling flames. Eyewitnesses reported that some customers sought shelter inside the store after hearing an initial blast but became trapped as the fire spread.

The Sonora governor said emergency, security, and health services responded “with great professionalism and commitment,” helping to control the situation and rescue survivors.

The Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum, extended her condolences to the victims’ families on X (formerly Twitter). “I have been in contact with Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo to provide support where needed,” she wrote, adding that Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez had been instructed to dispatch a support team to assist families and the injured.

The prosecutor’s office later confirmed that no evidence currently points to an intentional act, though all possibilities remain under investigation.

Waldo’s, the supermarket chain involved, released a statement expressing “profound sadness” over the tragedy and pledged full cooperation with investigators to determine what happened.

Local authorities have cordoned off the area, urging residents to avoid the site. Several nearby shops closed temporarily to prevent further damage. The blast also led to the cancellation of scheduled Day of the Dead celebrations in the area as the city mourned the victims.

The incident has shocked the nation, prompting calls for a review of safety measures in public spaces, especially during the busy holiday season.

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