Mexico Fireworks Explosion Leaves 10 Dead and Over 80 Injured
At least 10 people died and more than 80 were injured in a fireworks explosion during a church festival in central Mexico.
By Samuel Adeyemi · First published 7 Sept 2026
In brief
- A fireworks explosion occurred during a church festival in Santa Maria Canchesda, central Mexico, killing at least 10 people.
- The number of injured has increased, with over 80 people now reported hurt by officials.
- The blast happened as pyrotechnic materials were being prepared for a patron saint celebration near the local church.
- Emergency services responded quickly, treating the wounded and securing the area after the explosion.
- Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion and reviewing festival fireworks safety procedures.
Timeline · 6 moments
Fireworks explosion kills 10, injures 64 at Mexican church festival
South China Morning Post ↗Emergency services respond rapidly to the explosion scene
Al Jazeera ↗Authorities confirm death toll and launch investigation
Telegraaf ↗Separate fireworks accident injures 17 in Huejutla on same day
The Hindu ↗Officials maintain death and injury counts, investigation ongoing
ABC Top Stories ↗Injured toll rises and area suffers damage
Il Post ↗Update 7 Sept 2026, 11:25 am UTC
Some outlets now report the number of injured has risen to over 80, and the explosion caused structural damage in the area. The investigation into the cause of the blast continues and authorities are assessing the safety of fireworks at future events.
How it started
The tragedy began during preparations for a patron saint festival in the town of Santa Maria Canchesda, located in the State of Mexico. Residents were organizing fireworks for the religious celebration, a common tradition in the region.
As the pyrotechnic materials were being handled near the church, an explosion occurred. The festival, meant to honor a local saint, quickly turned into a disaster scene as people gathered for the event.
How it unfolded
On September 6, 2026, the explosion struck during the festival preparations. According to Mexican authorities, at least 10 people died instantly, and 64 others suffered injuries. The force of the blast was strong enough to collapse a wall, worsening the toll on those nearby, as reported by South China Morning Post.
Emergency response teams arrived quickly, providing medical aid to the injured and transporting the most severely hurt to hospitals. Local officials confirmed the number of casualties and began efforts to secure the area and prevent further harm.
The incident occurred in the context of a broader concern about the safety of fireworks at public celebrations in Mexico. On the same day, a separate fireworks accident in Huejutla injured 17 more people, according to The Hindu, highlighting the risks involved in these festivities.
Authorities launched an immediate investigation into what triggered the explosion. They also began reviewing how fireworks are stored and used during local events, as questions about oversight and safety regulations surfaced.
Where it stands
As of now, the death toll remains at 10, with 64 people reported injured. Emergency services have stabilized the scene, and most of the wounded are receiving medical care.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the explosion and whether any safety procedures were violated. Local officials are also considering changes to how fireworks are managed at future festivals.
What to watch
The main issues ahead are the results of the official investigation and any new safety measures that may be introduced for fireworks use at public events. The community and authorities are likely to discuss reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.


