A tragic nightclub fire in North Macedonia has taken 51 lives and left more than 118 people injured, authorities confirmed. The disaster unfolded early in the morning at the Pulse club in Kocani, a town about 100 km (60 miles) east of Skopje.
The fire started at approximately 02:30 (01:30 GMT) while the venue was packed with nearly 1,500 guests attending a concert by the well-known hip-hop duo DNK. Videos shared on social media captured the club’s roof engulfed in flames as people tried to escape. The horrifying scene has left the country in mourning.
Prime Minister Calls It a National Tragedy
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski called the incident a “difficult and very sad day” for North Macedonia. Expressing deep sorrow, he described the loss of so many young lives as heartbreaking. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and we will do everything to support them during this devastating time,” he said.
Government officials have vowed to investigate the cause of the fire and ensure justice for those affected. Flags have been lowered to half-mast as the nation grieves.
Fire Caused by Pyrotechnics, Say Officials
According to Interior Minister Pance Toskovski, early findings suggest the fire started when pyrotechnic devices sparked a highly flammable ceiling.
Footage from the concert shows the performers on stage as flares light up the venue. Moments later, the fire spreads rapidly, sending attendees into panic. Witnesses describe a scene of chaos, with people struggling to reach exits amid thick smoke and collapsing structures.
Authorities have arrested one person in connection with the fire. However, officials have not yet provided details about the suspect’s role in the incident.
Hospitals Overwhelmed with Injured Victims
The local hospital in Kocani initially admitted 90 victims, many suffering from severe burns. Some patients in critical condition were transferred to hospitals in Skopje for specialized treatment. Health Minister Ljupco Spasovski confirmed that 18 victims remain in critical condition, requiring urgent medical care.
Hospital staff have reported difficulties identifying victims, as many were without ID cards. “It is heartbreaking,” said Dr. Kristina Serafimova, the hospital director. “The victims were between 14 and 24 years old. Families are desperately searching for their loved ones.”
Calls for Stronger Safety Regulations
This incident has raised serious concerns about safety regulations in nightclubs across North Macedonia. Questions are emerging about whether the Pulse club had proper fire safety measures in place.
Survivors and witnesses claim that emergency exits were either blocked or difficult to access. “People were pushing and screaming. The flames moved so fast,” said one survivor. “It was impossible to see through the smoke.”
Firefighters battled the blaze for hours before bringing it under control. Officials are now conducting a full investigation to determine whether negligence played a role. If safety violations are found, authorities have promised to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Music Community and Nation in Shock
DNK, the duo performing at the concert, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. Formed in 2002, the group has dominated North Macedonia’s music charts for over a decade. “We are devastated and heartbroken,” they said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families.”
The nightclub fire is one of the deadliest in North Macedonia’s history. Similar disasters in other countries have led to calls for stricter fire safety enforcement. In 2015, a fire at a nightclub in Bucharest, Romania, killed 64 people, prompting new fire regulations across Europe.
Government Pledges Full Investigation
Authorities have set up a special investigation team to determine the exact cause of the fire. Prime Minister Mickoski has assured the public that his government will take all necessary actions.
“We will not rest until we uncover the truth behind this tragic event,” he said. “Those responsible will be held accountable.”
As families mourn their loved ones, the people of North Macedonia are coming together to support one another. Candlelight vigils have been held in Skopje and other cities, as the nation grieves this immense loss.