A festive weekend in northwestern Mexico turned into tragedy on Saturday when a massive fire swept through a discount store in downtown Hermosillo, killing at least 23 people and injuring a dozen others.

The blaze broke out amid Day of the Dead festivities, a period when families across Mexico gather to honour and remember loved ones who have passed away.

Authorities said many of the victims likely died from inhaling toxic fumes. Gustavo Salas, Sonora State’s attorney general, confirmed that the forensic medical service attributed most of the fatalities to smoke inhalation rather than burns.

“I have ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to clarify the causes of the accident,” Alfonso Durazo, governor of Sonora, announced in a video message on social media, adding that children were among the victims.

President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences on X, saying, “My heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.” She added that she had directed federal support teams to assist victims’ families and the injured.

Rescue operations were swift and extensive. The Sonora Red Cross deployed 40 personnel and 10 ambulances to the scene, making six hospital trips to transport victims.

The fire, now extinguished, erupted inside a branch of the popular discount chain Waldo’s. While the cause remains under investigation, early reports suggest a possible electrical malfunction. City officials have ruled out foul play, confirming the store was not the target of an attack.

As investigators comb through the charred remains of the store, the community of Hermosillo is mourning the sudden loss of life during what should have been a weekend of remembrance and celebration.

Melissa Enoch

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