"We join all market workers of San Pablito in Tultepec in this tragedy",
writes the Bishop of Cuautitlan, His Exc. Mgr. Guillermo Ortiz
Mondragón, expressing solidarity with the victims of the explosion that
occurred yesterday afternoon, December 20, at the fireworks market of
San Pablito.
At least 21 people died as a result of the explosions,
injuring 72 and 48 are missing. In just over an hour 6 explosions
destroyed 300 stands of the famous Mexican fireworks market.
The Bishop recalls that this city is known in particular for the manufacture of pyrotechnics, which has earned awards worldwide.
"About ten years ago the market was restored, becoming one of the safest
in Latin America" continues the text sent to Fides. It is estimated
that more than 300 tons of fireworks are managed in the market.
Mgr. Ortiz Mondragon informs that today he will celebrate Mass "in the
hope of the resurrection of our dead and for the speedy recovery of the
victims".