Introduction
The General Prosecutor’s Office of Sonora, led by Gustavo Salas Chávez, has reported that there are no indications suggesting the fire at a Waldos store in Hermosillo’s downtown area was intentionally set. He clarified that no line of investigation is being dismissed, but there are currently no elements pointing to an attack or deliberate act.
Victim Tally and Identification
Salas Chávez confirmed that 23 people have tragically lost their lives, and 11 were hospitalized. The death toll was later updated to 12 after the readmission of a patient. Most victims succumbed to toxic gas inhalation, facilitating identification through conventional means. Only one case might require fingerprint or genetic analysis for identification, as there are minors among the victims, though the majority are adults.
Hospitalized Individuals and Support for Families
The injured are distributed across six hospitals in Hermosillo. The State Victim Assistance Commission will publish their details to aid location efforts. The state health secretary personally coordinates medical attention following the governor’s instructions. Psychological, social, and legal support is being provided to families, ensuring no one faces the grieving process alone with institutional accompaniment.
Investigation and Access to the Premises
Salas Chávez mentioned that investigators have not fully entered the store’s interior due to ongoing debris removal and ensuring structural safety for peritives. The investigation will cover building conditions, emergency exits, and electrical systems. Rigorous peritives will be conducted to clarify events and determine responsibilities.
Waldos’ Statement
The Waldos company expressed its sorrow over the incident and extended solidarity to those affected and their families. They assured that their team is providing support during these challenging times. The company stated that local authorities are investigating the incident’s causes and pledged to collaborate transparently and responsibly as required.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Was the fire intentionally set? A: There are currently no indications or elements suggesting the fire was intentionally set.
- Q: How many people were injured or killed? A: Twenty-three people lost their lives, and 11 were hospitalized. The death toll was later updated to 12 after the readmission of a patient.
- Q: How are the injured being cared for? A: The injured are distributed across six hospitals in Hermosillo. The State Victim Assistance Commission will publish their details to aid location efforts.
- Q: What support is being provided to families? A> Psychological, social, and legal support is being provided to families, ensuring no one faces the grieving process alone with institutional accompaniment.
- Q: How is the investigation progressing? A: Investigators have not fully entered the store’s interior due to ongoing debris removal and ensuring structural safety for peritives. The investigation will cover building conditions, emergency exits, and electrical systems.
- Q: What is Waldos’ response to the incident? A: The Waldos company expressed its sorrow over the incident and extended solidarity to those affected and their families. They assured that their team is providing support during these challenging times and pledged to collaborate transparently and responsibly as required.
