Five injured, including two children, in fireworks accident at Mérida festival

A beloved tradition in Mérida, Yucatán, took a dangerous turn when pyrotechnics injured five people, including two children, during the "Quema de Toritos" festival. The incident occurred Tuesday night at the Feria de San Sebastián, a historic celebration in the city center. Hundreds had gathered to witness the event, which is a key part of the festivities organized by the Guild of Butchers. However, the celebration quickly devolved into chaos when fireworks unexpectedly launched into the crowd. The five individuals sustained injuries, primarily minor burns, according to reports from the Public Security Secretariat (SSP). While the exact cause of the malfunction remains under official investigation, the incident has cast a shadow over the traditional event. The Feria de San Sebastián is known for its blend of religious, cultural, and popular activities, drawing large crowds annually. The "Quema de Toritos," or burning of the bulls, is a particularly popular spectacle that attracts significant attention each year.