Mexican Health Minister Jorge Alcocer says the death toll from the pipeline explosion in central Mexico has risen to 85. Fifty-eight others are hospitalized, and dozens more are listed as missing.
Stating that 58 more people were taken to the hospital in Hidase, Alcocer said those critically injured taken to Mexico City for special treatment.
Hidalgo state Governor Omar Fayad adds that nine of the 68 remains found at the site have been identified but it may take months to identify the rest.
At least 54 of the dead were completely burned, so they could not be identified said Hidalgo state prosecutor. Forensic scientists are taking DNA samples from relatives of the missing in an attempt to identify remains, some of which are mere ash and bones.
Attorney General Alejandro Gertz said the investigation is underway to find the cause of the explosion.
The blast took place while around 800 people were in the site after the thieves drilled the pipeline to steal fuel.
The explosion took place in the Tula-Tucpan pipeline. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has launched an investigation into the incident, stating that state aid will be provided to victims.
Instead of punishing those involved in fuel theft, Obrador said he would seek ways to earn alternative income.
Mexico is undermined by at least $ 3 billion annually due to fuel oil thieves.
ILKHA