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Five killed in Villahermosa fairground blaze
At least five people died early Thursday when a fire broke out during a large outdoor concert in Villahermosa, Tabasco state, Mexican officials confirmed.
Mass gathering turns chaotic
The fire erupted around dawn at a crowded fairground where an estimated 135,000 attendees had gathered for a concert that began the previous night. Videos circulating on social media show panicked crowds screaming and rushing to escape the flames.
Cause remains unclear
Authorities have not yet determined what sparked the fire. Emergency crews managed to bring the blaze under control later in the day, according to Tabasco Governor Javier May.
Governor responds
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), May expressed condolences to the families of the victims and thanked the public for assisting in the evacuation. He also announced a state-funded recovery program to support local businesses impacted by the disaster.
"The flames have been controlled by our emergency services. My deepest sympathy goes to the families of those lost," May wrote.
Tabasco Governor Javier May
Next steps
Investigators are expected to begin examining the site to identify the fire's origin. State officials have not yet released details about the victims or the extent of injuries.
