Mexico probing blast at fireworks factory
Authorities in Mexico are investigating a recent chain-reaction explosion at a fireworks factory near the capital that killed at least 32 people.
Investigators are currently conducting DNA testing to reveal the identifications of the badly-burned remains of the victims, said Interior Minister of the State of Mexico Jose Manzur on Wednesday, adding that only 14 bodies have been identified.
He further said that almost all of the market’s 300 stalls had been completely razed due to the explosion. He said the site, which housed the country’s biggest fireworks market in the capital, had been inspected by safety officials last month and no irregularities had been reported.
The explosion occurred at the San Pablito fireworks market in Tultepec, about 32 kilometers north of the capital, on Tuesday afternoon, creating a staccato of bangs and flashes of light and sending a multi-colored salvo of smoke and fire into the sky.
The explosion also inflicted damage on nearby vehicles and buildings.
The blast also wounded scores of people, including at least ten minors. Some of the victims were reported to be critically burned.
According to Mexico State chief prosecutor Alejandro Gomez, the toll may rise since at least 12 people were reported missing.
Hundreds of army troopers were deployed to help emergency crews transport the injured to hospitals via ambulances and helicopters.
The market had experienced two similar incidents — in 2005 and 2006 — that left dozens of injuries each but no fatalities.
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