Dozens killed and injured in fireworks market explosion

At least 29 people died as a result of the explosions, Mexico State Gov. Eruviel Avila told local news outlets, according to AP. The initial incident took the lives of 26 people while three more died after being escorted to local hospitals.

At least 72 people, including children, are being treated for burns injuries, according to State Health Secretary Cesar Nomar Gomez Monge.

Avila, meanwhile, noted that at least 13 children who suffered burns to more than 90 percent of their bodies are being sent to Galveston, Texas for treatment.

A series of blasts took place at San Pablito fireworks market, around 2:50pm on Tuesday Dec. 20, . The explosions were even heard in the nearby towns of Cacalco and Tultitlan, locals wrote on Twitter.

Firefighters, policemen, and paramedics from the nearby municipalities of Coacalco, Tultitlan, Cuautitlan Izcalli and Zumpango, were mobilized along with State Security Commission units, Quadratin reports. The Mexican Army also arrived to help with rescue and evacuation operations.

Tultepec, is known for its pyrotechnics industry. Every year, it holds a weeklong festival with fireworks competitions among producers.  The National Pyrotechnic Festival is an annual nine-day event in March, which promotes both a local tradition of producing and using fireworks.

The National Pyrotechnic Festival is an annual nine-day event in March, which promotes both a local tradition of producing and using fireworks. Accidents involving fireworks are increasing in Tultepec.