Hermosillo: A massive fire broke out on Saturday inside a discount store in downtown Hermosillo, the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora, killing at least 23 people and injuring around a dozen others.

Authorities said the fire started in a branch of the Waldo’s store chain, located in a busy commercial area.

Governor Alfonso Durazo confirmed that many of the victims, including children, died after inhaling toxic smoke rather than from burn injuries. Rescue teams and firefighters worked for several hours to control the flames and evacuate those trapped inside the building.

State Attorney General Gustavo Salas Chávez said an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the blaze. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of an explosion or electrical fault, though there is no evidence so far of any criminal intent. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise before the fire quickly spread through the store, which contained various household and flammable items.

Local hospitals are treating several survivors with severe smoke inhalation.

Emergency teams, including the Red Cross, were deployed immediately to the scene. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences to the families of the victims and announced that federal authorities would assist in the investigation and relief efforts.

The tragedy has deeply shocked Hermosillo residents, who gathered outside the store on Sunday morning to mourn the victims. Officials have promised a transparent investigation and safety reviews across commercial centers in the city.

As the community grieves, questions are rising about fire safety standards and emergency preparedness in public stores across Mexico. Authorities are expected to release more details as rescue operations and forensic investigations continue.