5 killed, more than 12 injured in Mexico shopping mall fire

At least five people were killed when a large fire broke out at a shopping mall in northwestern Mexico, according to local reports. Several others were injured.

The fire was reported at about 2:30 p.m. local time on Thursday at Plaza Fiesta Las Palmas, a shopping mall in Los Mochis, in the northwestern state of Sinaloa. By 4:50 p.m., the fire was still burning, but emergency crews had brought much of it under control.

Officials have confirmed to local outlet Línea Directa Portal that at least five people were killed in the fire.

Local reports initially said people were trapped in several areas of the mall. It was not immediately clear how many people were still inside or whether search operations were ongoing.

At least 12 people were treated at the scene, with several requiring hospitalization, according to the mayor. Other people went to local hospitals on their own, but an exact number of injured people has not been confirmed.

A reporter for local outlet Luz Noticias said earlier that he saw victims with severe burns to their faces.

A large plume of smoke could be seen rising from the mall as emergency crews worked to extinguish the flames. Drone video showed heavy fire across a large section of the building.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known. Officials had not released details about the extent of the damage.