At least 23 people have died and 11 others were injured in a fire that broke out in a store in Mexico, authorities report.
Fire Erupts in Hermosillo
The fire occurred on Saturday in the city center of Hermosillo, northwestern Mexico, at a branch of Waldo’s, the country’s largest discount store chain, according to BBC.
Local authorities have described the incident as an explosion, although regional governor Alfonso Durazo noted that the exact cause is still under investigation.
The Public Safety Secretariat of Sonora confirmed that the fire is not considered a deliberate attack or act of violence against civilians.
Victims Include Children
Among the victims are children, including a 15-year-old girl who was injured and taken to the hospital.
Gustavo Salas Chávez, Attorney General of Sonora, told reporters that most of the deaths were caused by exposure to toxic gases. He emphasized that there is no evidence the fire was set intentionally.
Condolences from the President
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences on social media, offering sympathy to the families who lost their loved ones.
