Two priests caught in deadly church fireworks blast that killed 10

Two priests were among 64 people injured after stored pyrotechnic material exploded during a religious festival in central Mexico, killing at least 10 people and turning a night of celebration into a scene of devastation.

The explosion occurred on the night of Saturday, September 5, near the Nuestra Señora de la Luz church in Santa María Canchesdá, in the municipality of Temascalcingo, Mexico State, about 160 kilometres northwest of Mexico City.

Hundreds of residents had gathered to celebrate the community’s patron saint when the stored pyrotechnic material exploded in an area reportedly being used as a fireworks warehouse.

The blast caused part of the nearby church structure to collapse, trapping people beneath the debris and sending crowds fleeing from the scene.

Emergency crews, including firefighters, civil protection personnel and police officers, rushed to the area. Rescue workers searched through the rubble for survivors, while residents joined the efforts to help those caught in the blast.

Several injured people were taken to hospitals for treatment.

The Diocese of Atlacomulco said the two priests were among those injured. Both were reported to be out of danger.

The injured included people of different ages, including children and older adults.

The Attorney General’s Office of the State of Mexico has launched an investigation to establish how the pyrotechnic material ignited. Authorities have not yet announced a definitive cause.