Deadly Fire at North Macedonia Nightclub Leaves 59 Dead, Over 155 Injured
A devastating fire at a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 59 lives, with more than 155 people injured, officials confirmed.
The blaze ignited around 2:30 AM local time at Pulse Club, located approximately 100 km (60 miles) east of Skopje. Around 1,500 people were gathered at the venue for a concert by DNK, a renowned hip-hop duo in the country.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed deep sorrow, calling it a “heartbreaking day” as many young lives were lost in the disaster.
Arrests and Investigation Underway
Interior Minister Pance Toskovski stated that four arrest warrants have been issued in connection with the incident. One person has already been taken into custody, and state news agency Mia reported that the nightclub owner was among those detained.
Initial investigations suggest that the fire was triggered by sparks from pyrotechnic devices, which ignited the highly flammable ceiling. Shocking footage captures the moment flames spread rapidly as the band performed on stage, while attendees initially hesitated to evacuate.
Eyewitness Accounts and Rescue Efforts
Survivors described the chaotic scene as panicked concertgoers rushed towards the exits. Marija Taseva, 20, recounted being caught in a stampede, trampled underfoot before managing to escape. Meanwhile, her 25-year-old sister remains missing, with the family desperately searching for her in local hospitals.
Authorities have identified 35 of the deceased so far, while 18 critically injured patients are fighting for their lives. Reports indicate that the victims range in age from 14 to 24 years old.
National Mourning and Safety Inspections
In response to the tragedy, the government is preparing to declare seven days of national mourning. Urgent inspections of nightclubs and venues hosting large events will also be conducted to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The prime minister reassured the public that authorities are “fully mobilized” to investigate the cause of the fire and support the victims and their families.
Formed in 2002, DNK has been a dominant force in North Macedonia’s music scene over the past decade. The disaster has left the nation in shock, as tributes pour in for the lives lost.
Stay updated for more developments on this tragic incident.