Disaster Strikes: Nightclub Fire Claims 51 Lives in North Macedonia

SKOPJE, North Macedonia — A devastating fire at a nightclub in Kočani has left at least 51 people dead and more than 100 injured, according to the country’s interior ministry. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Sunday during a concert, causing chaos as attendees attempted to escape the flames.

The incident occurred around 3 a.m. local time at Pulse nightclub, where approximately 1,500 people were present for a performance by the popular hip-hop duo ADN. Eyewitness accounts have reported that many individuals were crushed in the rush to flee the scene as the fire quickly spread to the ceiling and roof of the venue.

“We are still trying to determine the exact number of casualties and injured,” stated Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski during a press conference. He confirmed that the use of pyrotechnics may have ignited the fire, leading to serious injuries and fatalities.

Emergency services responded promptly to the disaster, but local hospitals were quickly overwhelmed by the influx of victims. Medical professionals at Kočani General Hospital are continuing to provide care to those injured. Mr. Toshkovski emphasized the need for thorough investigations into the incident, indicating that a man had been arrested in connection with the fire.

Social media footage soon surfaced, showing dramatic scenes within the club as smoke billowed and flames engulfed the building. Family members of those inside have gathered outside hospitals, anxiously waiting for updates on their loved ones. Reports suggest a mixture of panic and chaos, as concertgoers struggled to escape.

The public prosecutor’s office has confirmed that investigations are underway, looking into the events that led to such a catastrophic incident. “A tragic fire occurred last night in the Pulse Disco Club, and the immediate focus is on supporting the victims and their families,” stated a spokesperson.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has expressed condolences and has visited the site to assess the situation firsthand, pledging government support to those affected. As investigations continue, the tragedy is being described as the most significant disaster in Kočani’s history.

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, but initial reports point to pyrotechnics used during the performance as a contributing factor. This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.