Sept. 7 (UPI) — At least 10 people were killed and 64 others were injured when pyrotechnic material stored at a warehouse in central Mexico exploded over the weekend, officials said.
The incident occurred Saturday night in Temascalcingo, located in the State of Mexico, about 100 miles northwest of Mexico City.
The death toll was announced Sunday morning by the State of Mexico government, which said in a statement that an Incident Command System had been established to respond to the explosion.
Video of the incident posted online shows the explosion occurred during a celebration for a patron saint. People are seen celebrating and dancing around a float from which fireworks are being lit. The sky then fills with smoke as fireworks shoot off in all directions.
Senate President Higinio Martinez said in a statement that he had spoken with Temascalcingo Mayor Veronica Moreno Martinez and had offered her his full support as well as any assistance the Senate could provide.
“My solidarity and deepest condolences go to the families who today are mourning the loss of their loved ones,” he said in a statement.
“To those who were injured, I wish a speedy recovery. In these difficult moments, I embrace the entire Temascalcingo community with respect and fraternity.”
