Tragedy Strikes: Nightclub Fire in North Macedonia Claims 59 Lives and Injures Over 150

In a devastating incident, a fire erupted in Club Pulse, a nightclub located in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday morning, resulting in the deaths of 59 individuals and injuring 155 others. The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. during a concert by a local pop group, as confirmed by Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, who noted that 39 of the deceased had been identified.

Initial assessments suggest that pyrotechnics set the club’s roof ablaze, creating chaos among concertgoers. Eyewitness videos captured the frantic scene, with attendees attempting to escape the thick smoke as the performers encouraged quick action.

Dragi Stojanov, a local resident, received the heartbreaking news that his 21-year-old son, Tomce, was among the victims. “He was my only child. I don’t need my life anymore,” Stojanov expressed, highlighting the immense tragedy affecting many families in the community.

In response to the overwhelming number of injuries, many victims with severe burns were hospitalized, with additional support provided by volunteer organizations. Health Minister Arben Taravari reported that 118 people were receiving treatment, and neighboring countries, including Albania and Bulgaria, offered medical assistance.

During a somber address, Taravari emphasized the commitment to saving as many lives as possible. “All our capabilities have been put to use,” he stated, visibly shaken by the unfolding tragedy. This incident stands as one of the deadliest in recent Macedonian history, impacting a nation of less than two million people.

President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova visited affected victims in a Skopje hospital. She expressed disbelief at the incident and called for courage among the youth facing this tragedy. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski echoed her sentiments through social media, describing the loss of young lives as irreparable.

As anxious family members gathered outside hospitals seeking information, reports revealed that the nightclub was housed in an old building previously used as a carpet warehouse. The fire caused significant structural damage, including partial roof collapse, and local law enforcement has cordoned off the site for an ongoing investigation.

Ljubco Kocevski, a state prosecutor, mentioned that several individuals were being questioned regarding the tragedy, although specifics remain undisclosed. Following the incident, officials have committed to investigating the club’s licensing and safety measures, with police already arresting one suspect in connection with the fire.

Condolences poured in from regional leaders and global dignitaries, including the European Union’s Kaja Kallas, who expressed sorrow over the incident. Political figures from Albania and Ukraine shared messages of support, reflecting a widespread sense of grief among neighboring nations.

As North Macedonia grapples with the aftermath of this catastrophic event, the community’s resilience will be tested as they confront the profound loss and work towards recovery.