Pyrotechnic material exploded during the festival for a patron saint in a town in Mexico State, collapsing a wall and killing at least 10 people, Mexican authorities said.
The explosion occurred Saturday night next to the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church in Temascalcingo, roughly 100 miles from Mexico City.
Mexico State authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion.
#WATCH | Mexico: Fireworks Blast At Church Festival Kills 10, Injures 64
At least 10 people were killed and 64 injured after stored pyrotechnic material exploded near a church in Santa María Canchesdá during patron saint festivities. The blast caused part of the structure to? pic.twitter.com/ojBARkstQJ
— ET NOW (@ETNOWlive)
Two priests were among those injured. Elderly individuals and children were also transported to local hospitals after the explosion.
Senate President Higinio Martinez said in a statement that he had spoken with Temascalcingo Mayor Veronica Moreno Martinez and had offered her his full support as well as any assistance the Senate could provide.
"My solidarity and deepest condolences go to the families who today are mourning the loss of their loved ones," he said in a statement.
"To those who were injured, I wish a speedy recovery. In these difficult moments, I embrace the entire Temascalcingo community with respect and fraternity."
The tragic incident on Sept. 5 is not the first massive fireworks-related malfunction in Mexico.
Nearly four years ago, a fireworks explosion in a village in the municipality of Huejutla, in the central state of Hidalgo, left 17 people injured.
Fireworks are Among the Most Dangerous Attractions
Fireworks are often used for celebratory moments. Each year, fireworks light up the night sky on Independence Day, New Year's Day and other festivals across the world.
However, firework malfunctions are also a yearly occurrence and often result in serious injuries.
Maria Escalante said that one of her twin sons lost several fingers on his right hand, which was completely mutilated after he and a friend picked up an illegal firework from the street in Anaheim. She said that he lit the firework, which then exploded in their hands.
"He's not doing good. He's going to be in the hospital for about two months. His hands are literally butchered," Escalante said.
