Tlaxcala, Mexico – During a religious procession in a rural village in central Mexico last Friday, a truck loaded with fireworks exploded killing at least 17 people and injuring 154. Officials report that eighty of the victims remain in the hospital.

According to Jose Mateo Morales, director of the Tlaxcala state civil protection department, the blast was set off when a firework malfunctioned and landed on a truck carrying other fireworks and ignited them. "It was very serious," he said.

The victims were marching in an annual procession during a ceremony honoring Jesus Tepactepec, patron saint of the village named after him, which is home to about 1,000 people in the municipality of Nativitas. At least one child was among the victims.

The blast happened on the highway just outside the village. According to a photographer at the scene, there were human remains and burned clothes spread around a 100-yard radius, including on rooftops. One witness said he saw "bodies flying" as people ran for cover. Helicopters, ambulances and soldiers from the area's military base rushed to the village, about 70 miles east of Mexico City.

Tlaxcala Bishop Francisco Moreno said he toured the scene of the blast and went to hospitals to visit the wounded. "I blessed all who died and said a prayer for them," the bishop said.

Fireworks are a typical feature of Mexican holidays and religious celebrations but they often are manufactured, stored, and transported under unsafe conditions, and the country sees periodic fatal explosions.

Jesus Tepactepec is known for its handicrafts manufacturing, including baskets and wood figures, and its annual religious celebration draws artisans from nearby towns who come to sell their wares.