Funerals Begin for NYC Explosion Victims, Loved Ones “Heartbroken”

Loved ones have begun holding services for the eight people killed in the Harlem explosion last week, leaning on each other for support as they grief their heartbreaking losses.

Mourners held a funeral Wednesday for George Amadeo, a 44-year-old building handyman killed in the blast at the two buildings, which then collapsed. Authorities say a gas leak was to blame.

"This is not like a normal death -- very different, very sudden," said Denise Seme, a family friend.

"We're just all very heartbroken," said another friend, Marquita Martin.

A few hours later and a few blocks away Wednesday, a wake was held for a mother and daughter who were killed.

Rosaura Hernandez Barrios, 22, who worked as a line cook at Triomphe Restaurant in the Iroquois Hotel, and her mother, Rosaura Barrios Vazquez, 43, died together.

"It's hard to believe that she's so young and that she's gone," said Bianca Rivera, a friend of Barrios.

Mexico's consul general in New York said both women's bodies will be flown to Mexico City at the government's expense. 

--Andrew Siff contributed to this story

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