MEXICO CITY: A devastating explosion at a busy supermarket in Hermosillo, the capital of Sonora state, has left at least 23 people dead, including children, and injured several others. The blast ripped through the Waldo’s retail store on Saturday, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the premises within minutes.
According to preliminary investigations, officials suspect an electrical transformer malfunction may have caused the explosion. Sonora’s Attorney General Gustavo Salas Chávez revealed that most victims lost their lives due to toxic gas inhalation, while others suffered severe burns.
Governor Alfonso Durazo expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, pledging a transparent inquiry into the incident. “We mourn the loss of innocent lives, including children, and will ensure justice for all those affected,” he stated.
President Claudia Sheinbaum also extended her condolences, announcing that federal aid teams have been dispatched to support victims and their families. The explosion has shocked the nation, with emergency services working round-the-clock to secure the area and investigate possible safety lapses.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as thick smoke billowed from the supermarket and panicked shoppers rushed to escape. Rescue teams managed to pull several survivors from the debris, but the death toll continues to rise as recovery efforts progress.
This tragedy has raised serious concerns about safety standards in public commercial spaces across Mexico, with experts calling for stricter inspections and preventive measures to avert similar disasters in the future.
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