Mexico church festival fireworks blast kills 10, injures 64, cause unclear

At least 10 people were killed and 64 injured when stored pyrotechnic material exploded Saturday night during preparations for a festival honoring Our Lady of Light near the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church in Santa María Canchesdá, in Mexico State’s Temascalcingo municipality, about 100 miles northwest of Mexico City. Hundreds had gathered nearby when the blast caused a wall and parts of adjacent structures to collapse, trapping people beneath debris and igniting a fire. Emergency crews from several municipalities searched the wreckage, rescued victims and transported the injured—including two priests, children and elderly people—to regional hospitals. Authorities have opened an investigation, but the precise cause has not been determined. The disaster highlights recurring dangers associated with fireworks used in Mexico’s religious and community celebrations.