Tragic fire at Mexico store kills 23 including children during Day of the Dead festivities

A devastating fire engulfed a Waldo’s discount store in downtown Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, on Saturday afternoon, killing at least 23 people, including children, and injuring 12 others, officials confirmed. The tragedy struck during the country’s vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, a time when families honor and remember their departed loved ones.

The fire broke out around 3 PM local time, sending thick black smoke billowing from the store as shoppers evacuated amid chaos. Video footage posted on social media showed flames rapidly consuming the building and firefighters battling to contain the blaze.

Many victims were trapped inside the store, with preliminary forensic reports indicating that most deaths resulted from inhalation of toxic gases rather than direct injuries from the fire itself.


Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo expressed deep sorrow in a public video message, confirming the presence of children among those who lost their lives and promising a “thorough and transparent investigation” to determine the cause. Gustavo Salas, Sonora’s Attorney General, stated that the victims were transported to six hospitals across Hermosillo, and emphasized that there was currently no evidence to suggest the fire was intentional or related to any attack.

President Claudia Sheinbaum extended her deepest condolences to the families affected and announced the deployment of government support teams to assist both victims’ families and those injured. The Sonora Red Cross mobilized 40 personnel and 10 ambulances, conducting multiple hospital trips as part of the emergency response.

Local reports indicate the cause of the fire is under investigation, with some speculation pointing to a possible electrical fault as a trigger. The store, part of a well-known discount chain, sustained complete destruction while nearby buildings also experienced minor damage.

This tragic event has cast a somber tone over what is usually a festive weekend in Mexico. Authorities continue their investigation amidst widespread mourning throughout the Sonora community.