Mexico’s President Shocked After Deadly Fire Kills 23 At Discount Store During Day Of The Dead Celebrations

by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Chief International Correspondent

MEXICO CITY (Worthy News) – Mexico’s president has expressed her shock after a festive weekend turned tragic Saturday when at least 23 people, including children, were killed and a dozen others injured in a fire and explosion at a discount store in northwestern Mexico.

President Claudia Sheinbaum offered her “heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives” after the blaze erupted during Day of the Dead festivities in downtown Hermosillo, the capital of Sonora state.

She said she had instructed the Interior Secretary to dispatch federal support teams to assist victims’ families and the injured.

The inferno broke out at a branch of the popular Waldo’s discount chain on Saturday afternoon, when shoppers crowded the store ahead of the traditional holiday honoring deceased loved ones.

“I have ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to clarify the causes of the accident,” said Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo in a video statement, confirming that children were among the victims.

CAUSE AND RESPONSE

Authorities said most of the victims died from inhaling toxic gases rather than burns, according to Gustavo Salas Chávez, Sonora’s attorney general.

Initial findings point to a possible electrical or transformer failure, but officials stressed there was no sign the store was deliberately targeted.

Emergency responders, including the Sonora Red Cross, deployed 40 staff and 10 ambulances, making multiple hospital runs as the fire engulfed the building before being brought under control.

Sheinbaum said her government would ensure assistance for the victims and their families. “Our hearts are with Sonora,” she posted on X.

Governor Durazo confirmed that forensic and fire-investigation teams are working to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to identify the victims.

FESTIVAL IN MOURNING

The disaster cast a somber shadow over Mexico’s Day of the Dead weekend, a time of vibrant remembrance marked by parades, candles, and marigolds.

Local officials warned that the tragedy highlights the need for stricter fire safety standards in public buildings and busy commercial areas, especially during high-traffic holidays.

This story is based on confirmed reports from Reuters and The Associated Press. Authorities in Sonora state have opened an official investigation into the fire at Waldo’s store in Hermosillo.

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