A mother of three has died after reportedly shielding her six-year-old daughter from the flames of an LPG tanker explosion in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Viviana Aguilar Zendejas, 31, was travelling in a car with her daughter Isabella when the blast occurred on August 6.
Mother's final act
Isabella recalled her mother telling her to hold her breath as gas entered the vehicle, before picking her up and carrying her out of the car. As the gas ignited, Viviana reportedly shielded Isabella from the flames with her body.
Isabella suffered burns to around four per cent of her body, according to NeedToKnow. She was treated at a local hospital before being discharged to recover at home.
Severe injuries and death
Viviana was left with severe second- and third-degree burns over more than half of her body. She was initially treated locally before being intubated and transferred to Mexico City for specialist care.
The 31-year-old died in intensive care on Thursday, August 13, a week after the explosion. She was reported to be the first person to die following the blast.
Investigation and aftermath
More than 20 people were also reportedly injured, including children who required hospital treatment in Mexico and the US. Homes and vehicles in the area were also damaged.
The tanker was operated by Tomza Gas Titanium S.A. de C.V. Investigators are now examining what caused the explosion and who may be liable. The Morelos State Attorney General’s Office has said the case will be reclassified following Viviana's death.
