Toll in Mexico fireworks explosion rises to 16

Toll in Mexico fireworks explosion rises to 16
Updated on

Summary The document said a total of 154 people had been injured in the accident.

 

TLAXCALA, Mexico (AFP) - The number of people killed when a small truck loaded with fireworks exploded during a religious procession in a central Mexican village rose to 16 Sunday, authorities said.

 

Scores more injured in Friday's tragedy were still being treated in hospitals, said a statement released by the Tlaxcala state government. The document said a total of 154 people had been injured in the accident, of whom 72 remain hospitalized.

 

One witness said he saw "bodies flying" as people ran for cover after a stray firework landed on the truck in Jesus Tepactepec in the middle of a march for the village's patron saint.

 

Mexicans often set off fireworks during celebrations, but accidents have happened in the past due to the mishandling of the pyrotechnics or a lack of safety measures.
 

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