A powerful explosion at a supermarket in the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora has killed at least 23 people, including several children, and injured 11 others, authorities have confirmed.
The blast tore through a Waldo’s store in the city of Hermosillo on Saturday afternoon, leaving the building engulfed in flames and scattering debris across the street. Photos and videos from the scene showed the store’s front windows shattered and the facade blackened by fire.
The Sonora state prosecutor’s office said early findings point to an accidental cause. Investigators are focusing on a transformer located inside the store as a possible source of the explosion. Public security officials ruled out any indication of a targeted attack or criminal act.
Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo said “a number of the victims” were minors, adding that emergency teams responded swiftly to rescue survivors and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
“I have ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident and identify those responsible,” Durazo said in a televised address.
“No one will face this tragedy alone. Our emergency, security, and health services acted with professionalism and courage, saving lives.”
President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences to the victims’ families on X, saying she had spoken with Durazo and instructed Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez to dispatch federal assistance to Hermosillo.
The explosion, which occurred around 2 p.m. local time, sent panic through the city’s commercial district. Nearby shops quickly evacuated staff and customers as firefighters battled to contain the blaze.
Authorities have cordoned off the area as forensic teams continue their investigation. Local officials say efforts are underway to identify the victims and provide psychological and financial support to affected families.
