A devastating fire at a Waldo’s discount store in Hermosillo, Mexico, has killed at least 23 people and injured 11 others, with authorities launching an investigation into the cause. The blaze erupted on Saturday afternoon, shocking the community and prompting a swift response from local and national officials.
The fire broke out in the city center of Hermosillo, the capital of Sonora state, engulfing the store during a busy shopping period. Governor Alfonso Durazo confirmed the tragedy in an online video address, expressing deep sadness and noting that the victims included minors, with reports indicating 12 women, five men, four boys, and two girls among the deceased. The store was crowded with customers preparing for the upcoming Day of the Dead celebrations, amplifying the impact of the incident.
Casualties mounted quickly, with 11 injured individuals transported to various hospitals for treatment. Durazo emphasized the severity of the event, stating that it has left a profound sorrow among the people of Sonora. He ordered an exhaustive and transparent investigation to determine the cause and assign responsibility, assuring the public of a thorough process to prevent future occurrences.
Initial findings from the Sonora Public Security Secretariat suggest the fire was not intentionally set, ruling out arson or other acts of violence. Investigators are focusing on a possible electrical malfunction, with a transformer inside the store under scrutiny as a potential ignition source. This direction highlights concerns over safety standards in commercial establishments and the need for regular inspections.
Medical officials revealed that most deaths resulted from inhalation of toxic gases, which spread rapidly through the enclosed space. Gustavo Salas, the state’s attorney general, cited the forensic medical service in attributing the fatalities to smoke and fume exposure, underscoring the dangers in such environments. Emergency responders, including the Mexican Red Cross, mobilized 40 staff and 10 ambulances, making multiple trips to hospitals to aid the injured.
In response, President Claudia Sheinbaum extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and directed the Secretary of the Interior to deploy support teams to assist those affected. This coordinated effort aims to provide medical care, psychological support, and logistical aid, reflecting a unified government response to the tragedy. The incident has drawn national attention, with calls for improved safety protocols in public spaces.
The fire has cast a somber shadow over the Day of the Dead festivities, a time typically marked by vibrant celebrations honoring deceased loved ones. As the community mourns, the ongoing investigation seeks to provide closure and implement measures to enhance public safety. Authorities continue to work closely with affected families, emphasizing transparency and accountability in the wake of this catastrophic event.