Death toll rises to 27 in tragic accident in Mexico

The number of pilgrims killed after being run over by a truck on Thursday night in the Mexican state of Zacatecas has risen to 27, announced the Health Ministry on Friday.

The incident happened after the heavy truck lost control and mowed down various people who were participating in a religious ceremony in the capital city of Mazapil municipality in central Mexico. At the time of the tragic accident, 20 people were killed at the scene, including one minor, and around 149 people were injured.

There are still 31 pilgrims in hospital and 10 of them are in a serious condition, said the Health Ministry via an official communication.

Around 200 people were affected by the accident, according to a report by Zacatecas' Civil Protection.

Preliminary investigations showed excessive speed of the truck with faults in the breaks was blamed for the accident.

The vehicle is registered to the company Industrial Constructions and Contractors and belongs to Jose Ascencion Carrillo.

The driver fled the scene and the company has not been able to find him. However, the company did inform local media that the truck was fit for purpose and it is insured against accidents.

Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto expressed his deepest regret and condolences to the victims and their families about the tragic accident and appointed Health Secretary Mercedes Juan Lopez to attend to the case personally and guarantee the best medical care for the injured.