Tragic Blaze in Mexico's Discount Store Claims 23 Lives

Sun Nov 02 2025 19:40:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating fire at a Waldo's discount store in Hermosillo, Mexico, has resulted in at least 23 fatalities and numerous injuries, sparking investigations into the causes of the explosion-like incident.

In a tragic incident at a Waldo's discount store in Hermosillo, Mexico, a fire has killed 23 people, including children, with 11 others sustaining injuries. The cause of the blaze, described as explosion-like by local authorities, is under investigation, and cultural events have been canceled in observance of the tragedy.

A fire that broke out at a discount shop in Mexico has killed at least 23 people and injured 11 others, local officials say.

The blaze broke out on Saturday in the centre of the north-western city of Hermosillo at a branch of Waldo's - Mexico's largest discount chain.

Multiple local authorities described the incident as an explosion, though regional Governor Alfonso Durazo said the exact cause had yet to be determined. The Sonora state public security secretariat ruled out the possibility it was an attack or act of deliberate violence against civilians.

Children are among the victims, with a 15-year-old girl taken to hospital.

Images from the scene show thick, black smoke rising from the building, with flames spreading to parked cars. After the fire was extinguished, scorch marks were visible around the shop’s doors and windows, one of which was completely destroyed.

Governor Durazo expressed condolences, saying, To the families who lost a loved one... I share your pain and offer you my full solidarity. He announced the start of an investigation to clarify the causes of the incident and determine responsibility.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also extended her condolences via social media. Waldo's shops are widespread throughout Mexico, making this tragedy even more poignant.

The fire occurred during Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations, leading to the cancellation of planned cultural events in the state.