A massive fire at a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, has left 59 people dead and 155 others injured. The tragic incident happened around 2:30 a.m. during a concert by a local pop band at Club Pulse. According to Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, 39 victims have been identified so far. He stated that pyrotechnics used during the event likely set the roof on fire, leading to the disaster.
Videos from inside the club showed a chaotic scene, with people trying to escape through thick smoke while the band urged them to evacuate quickly. As hospitals filled with victims, families anxiously waited for updates on their loved ones. One grieving father, Dragi Stojanov, shared his pain after losing his only son, 21-year-old Tomce. “He was my only child. I don’t need my life anymore,” he said in deep sorrow.
Emergency responders transported the injured to hospitals across the country, including in the capital, Skopje. Many suffered severe burns. Volunteer organizations and neighboring countries such as Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Serbia have offered their assistance. Health Minister Arben Taravari assured that every possible resource is being used to save lives. “We are doing everything we can to help these young people survive this tragedy,” he said.
The small nation of North Macedonia, home to less than two million people, is in mourning over what is being called the country’s worst disaster in recent history. President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova visited survivors in the hospital and met with their anxious parents. Overcome with emotion, she said, “It’s heartbreaking. It’s hard to believe this happened. We must support these young survivors in moving forward.”
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski also expressed his grief, calling it a “very sad day for Macedonia.” He added, “The loss of so many young lives is unbearable. The pain for their families and loved ones is beyond words.”
Reports suggest that the nightclub was housed in an old building that was once a carpet warehouse. The fire caused part of the roof to collapse, exposing burnt wooden beams and rubble. Authorities have sealed off the area and are collecting evidence to determine the exact cause of the fire.
State prosecutor Ljubco Kocevski confirmed that several individuals are being questioned, though details remain undisclosed. Officials have launched an investigation into the club’s licensing and safety measures. The government has pledged to ensure that anyone responsible for negligence or wrongdoing will be held accountable. So far, one person has been arrested, but authorities have not released further details on their involvement.
This devastating fire has shaken the entire nation. The government and emergency responders are working tirelessly to provide medical care, support grieving families, and uncover the truth behind this tragedy. As the investigation continues, the people of North Macedonia stand united in mourning and hope for justice.
