The Mexican Red Cross confirmed on Saturday that the death toll from a fire at a Waldo's store located in the center of Hermosillo, the capital of the northern state of Sonora, has risen to 23 people, while the number of injured is counted in the dozens.
"Yes, we have that number, 23 deaths, to date: 12 female; five male; four girls and two boys," stated Carlos Freaner Figueroa, National President of the Mexican Red Cross.
The fire occurred around 15:00 local time (21:00 GMT) at the establishment on Dr. Alberto G. Noriega Avenue, between Benito Juárez and Mariano Matamoros streets, when the store was full of customers due to payday and pre-Day of the Dead shopping.
According to a preliminary report from local authorities, among the victims are at least six minors, two pregnant women, several elderly people, and employees of the establishment.
On social media, the governor of Sonora, Alfonso Durazo Montaño, expressed his condolences to the victims' families and assured that his administration will provide comprehensive support to those affected.
"I express my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the people who died in the fire that occurred today in downtown Hermosillo. The state government will provide timely and comprehensive care to the victims and their loved ones," stated the official.
Fire, Municipal Police, and Civil Protection teams remain at the scene, which remains cordoned off while investigations into the causes of the fire are ongoing.
Preliminarily, at least 12 injured people were also reported, seven of whom were taken to the ISSSTE Hospital, one to the IMSS Clinic 14, two to the Northwest Clinic, and two more to the State Specialty Hospital.
Authorities continue rescue and damage assessment operations in the affected area.
