School ceremony tragedy: girl injured in costume fire

The incident occurred on Wednesday at Teodomiro Manzano High School in Huasca de Ocampo, as students showcased their Day of the Dead costumes. Video footage shows Osorio standing on stage when her dress, constructed from tamale leaves, came into contact with a candle.

Another student attempted to extinguish the flames with his hands, but was unable to stop the fire from spreading. Osorio remained on the stage as classmates reacted with horror. School staff then assisted her off the platform.

The video shows bystanders using jackets in an effort to put out the blaze as Osorio moved around the stage. A bucket of water was eventually used to help control the fire.

Following initial treatment at a local children’s medical facility, Osorio was transferred to a hospital in Mexico City for specialized care. Her father, José Osorio, has requested public assistance to help cover the mounting medical expenses.

“Zaira suffered a terrible incident inside a secondary school, which resulted in burns over a large part of her body,” he wrote online. “Currently, she is facing a delicate situation that requires constant medical attention and care.”

The Hidalgo state Ministry of Education has launched an investigation into the incident. School policy prohibits flammable materials, according to Azteca Noticias. José Osorio has stated that the family has not yet been contacted by authorities.