URGENT UPDATE: A devastating explosion and fire at a convenience store in Hermosillo, Sonora, has tragically claimed the lives of at least 23 people, including children, and left 12 others injured. The incident unfolded around 2:00 p.m. local time on October 28, 2023, sending shockwaves through the community.
Local officials, including Governor Alfonso Durazo, confirmed the heart-wrenching news in a video statement. “Sadly, a number of the victims we’ve found were minors,” he stated, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the community. Injured individuals have been rushed to hospitals in Hermosillo for urgent medical care.
Preliminary investigations led by Sonora Attorney General Gustavo Salas Chávez indicate that the fatalities resulted from “inhalation of toxic gases.” However, he noted that authorities are keeping all avenues of investigation open, stating, “At this time, we have no indication that leads us to presume the fire was intentional.”
Social media is flooded with harrowing images of the fire engulfing the Waldo’s store, depicting the desperate chaos that ensued. One distressing video captures a burned man collapsing just outside the store’s entrance, highlighting the human toll of this tragic event.
In response to the calamity, Governor Durazo assured the public that emergency, security, and health services acted swiftly, saying, “Nobody will face this pain alone.” He has ordered a comprehensive and transparent investigation to uncover the causes of this catastrophic incident and hold those responsible accountable.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum extended her condolences via social media, offering support to the grieving families. “I have been in contact with the Sonora governor to provide support where needed. I’ve instructed Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodriguez to send a support team to assist the families and the injured,” she stated.
Trapped inside the store, customers sought refuge from the explosion, only to find themselves ensnared by the flames. Local media reports indicate that nearby businesses rapidly closed their doors to prevent the fire from spreading. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area, and festivities scheduled for the Day of the Dead holiday have been canceled out of respect for the victims.
As the community grapples with this disaster, attention turns to the ongoing investigation. What led to such a catastrophic event, and how can similar tragedies be prevented in the future? Stay tuned for the latest updates as this story develops.