28 Die in Mexico Fireworks Blaze

MEXICO CITY —  Illegal fireworks stands ignited Tuesday in the port city of Veracruz as revelers thronged a marketplace to buy New Year’s supplies, killing at least 28 people as the blaze engulfed a city block, officials said.

Police and bystanders helped firefighters carry heavy hoses as they struggled to extinguish blazing cars, buildings and market stalls. Fireworks could be heard zipping through the air over the roar of the flames.

As firefighters brought the blaze under control overnight, they discovered more incinerated bodies at a clothing store and a shoe store. City fire spokesman Carlos Ortiz said 28 bodies were recovered and 50 people were injured, most of them suffering smoke inhalation. He expected the death toll to rise.

The fire broke out at outdoor street stands and spread rapidly to a nearby enclosed market, Ortiz said. It was unclear how it started, he said, although there were reports that a passerby threw a cigarette at a stand.

City officials tried to shut down the fireworks stands Dec. 24, but backed off after stand owners attacked them with sticks and rocks, Ortiz said.

Fireworks explosions are common in Mexico, where people use them to celebrate holidays and special occasions.