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11 Killed in Mexican Fireworks Accident


Soldiers and police inspect the site of an explosion in the village of Jesus Tepactepec, near the state capital Tlaxcala, Mar. 15, 2013.
Soldiers and police inspect the site of an explosion in the village of Jesus Tepactepec, near the state capital Tlaxcala, Mar. 15, 2013.
A truck loaded with fireworks exploded during a religious procession in central Mexico. Authorities say the blast killed 11 people and wounded more than 150 others.

The blast ripped through a crowd of pilgrims in the village of Jesus Tepactepec on Friday, when one of the burning fireworks landed on the truck and ignited the aerial displays that were about to be launched.

The annual procession honors St. Jesus Tepactepec, the village's patron and namesake.

Fireworks are a traditional part of many religious celebrations and holidays in Mexico, but they often are manufactured, stored, transported and handled under unsafe conditions.
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