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At least 23 people, including minors, were killed in a massive explosion at a supermarket in northern Mexico on Saturday, authorities confirmed. The tragic incident occurred at a Waldo’s store in Hermosillo, the capital of Sonora state, and is believed to have been caused by a faulty electric transformer, according to preliminary investigations. Officials confirm accidental cause under investigation Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo confirmed the death toll in a video statement, expressing grief over the loss of lives, including several children. “Sadly, a number of the victims we’ve found were minors,” Durazo said, adding that he had ordered an “extensive and transparent investigation” into the explosion to determine the cause and identify any responsible parties. State prosecutor Gustavo Salas said most victims died due to toxic gas inhalation, while 12 others were injured and are being treated at hospitals in Hermosillo. “The working assumption is that the incident was accidental, and the investigation is looking into a transformer located inside the store,” Salas said. He clarified that while there was no evidence of an intentional act, all possible causes remain under review. “We don’t rule out any line of investigation,” he added. Emergency response and government support Governor Durazo commended the swift response of emergency, security, and health services, saying their timely actions prevented further casualties. “Nobody will face this pain alone. From the very first moments, teams responded with great professionalism and commitment, controlling the situation and saving lives,” he said. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum offered her condolences to the victims’ families on X (formerly Twitter). “I have been in contact with Governor Durazo to provide support where needed,” she wrote. “I’ve instructed Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez to send a support team to assist the families and the injured.” Eyewitness accounts and aftermath Local media reported that customers sought refuge inside the store after the explosion but became trapped as the flames spread rapidly. Images shared by local outlets showed the charred facade of the building, shattered windows, and black smoke billowing into the sky. According to El Universal, the explosion occurred around 2:00 pm (2000 GMT), prompting nearby businesses to shut down as a precaution. Firefighters and rescue teams worked for hours to control the blaze and search for survivors among the debris. Authorities have cordoned off the area, urging the public to avoid the vicinity. In light of the tragedy, local officials cancelled planned Day of the Dead celebrations in Hermosillo as a mark of respect for the victims. Supermarket chain expresses condolences In a statement shared on social media, Waldo’s, the supermarket chain where the explosion occurred, expressed “profound sadness” over the loss of life and pledged full cooperation with authorities. “We will work transparently and responsibly with the relevant agencies to determine what happened,” the company said. Investigation ongoing As recovery operations continue, investigators are focusing on the electrical system and transformer unit believed to have triggered the explosion. Officials are also reviewing the store’s safety protocols and maintenance records. The tragedy has left the Hermosillo community in mourning, with many families awaiting the identification of their loved ones. Authorities have promised psychological and financial assistance to affected families as the nation reels from one of the deadliest urban accidents in recent years.
