Girl, 12, Suffers Severe Burns After Costume Catches Fire at School Event in Mexico

A 12-year-old student in Mexico's state of Hidalgo suffered extensive burns over 40% of her body when her Day of the Dead costume ignited during a school ceremony on Wednesday. The incident occurred at Teodomiro Manzano High School as students were modeling their outfits.

Horrifying video footage captured the moment Zaira Osorio's gold-colored dress, reportedly made from tamale leaves, came into contact with a candle on a table behind her on stage. Flames quickly engulfed her costume.

Fellow students and school staff reacted immediately. One male student attempted to extinguish the flames with his hands, while others used their jackets. Despite the panic, Osorio remained still on the platform until two school staffers escorted her offstage. Event organizers urged the crowd to remain calm as the situation unfolded.

A bucket of water was eventually used to douse the fire. Osorio was initially taken to a local medical facility before being transferred to a hospital in Mexico City for specialized care. She is being treated for second-degree burns.

Osorio's father, José Osorio, has appealed for public assistance to cover the mounting medical expenses. He stated that his daughter is in a delicate condition requiring constant care and that the family is struggling to meet the increasing costs.

"In such a serious situation, we believe it is essential that our family receives attention, accountability, and support," he wrote on social media, adding that he had not yet been contacted by authorities. The Hidalgo state Ministry of Education has launched an investigation into the incident. According to local reports, flammable materials are prohibited in schools.