Tragedy in Macedonia, fire at nightclub leaves iver 50 dead and 100 injured
A devastating fire has destroyed the “Pulse” nightclub in Kocani, a small town in North Macedonia, located about 100 kilometers east of the capital, Skopje. The blaze broke out around 3 a.m. during a concert by the hip-hop duo DNK, a popular act among the country’s youth, which had drawn approximately 1,500 spectators. The initial toll reports at least 51 deaths and over 100 injuries, some in critical condition.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was triggered by the use of pyrotechnic devices inside the venue, which quickly ignited the ceiling. Witnesses described moments of total chaos, with the crowd rushing toward emergency exits as the flames spread at alarming speed. Many victims succumbed to smoke inhalation or suffered severe burns.
Rescue teams arrived at the scene promptly, but the intensity of the fire complicated their efforts. The injured were transported to hospitals in Kocani and Stip, a nearby city about 30 kilometers away, where some are fighting for their lives.
Tragedy in Macedonia, fire at nightclub leaves iver 50 dead and 100 injured
Authorities have launched an investigation to clarify the dynamics of the incident and identify those responsible. Some event organizers have been detained, while others are among the injured. North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, assuring that the government is fully committed to supporting the affected families.
The Kocani community is in shock: many relatives of the victims have gathered outside hospitals, desperate for news about their loved ones. Authorities have declared a national day of mourning to honor those who lost their lives in this devastating event.