A nightclub fire in Kocani, North Macedonia, has resulted in at least 51 deaths and over 100 injuries. The blaze erupted at the Pulse club around 03:00 local time during a concert by the hip-hop duo ADN, attended by approximately 1,500 people. Initial reports suggest the fire may have been triggered by pyrotechnic devices, with video footage showing sparks igniting the ceiling. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski noted that arrests have been made. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed condolences, emphasizing the government’s commitment to investigating the tragedy, which he described as a “difficult and very sad day” for the nation.
Officials report that at least 51 individuals have died and over 100 others have sustained injuries in a nightclub fire in North Macedonia.
The fire reportedly broke out around 03:00 (02:00 GMT) at the Pulse club located in Kocani, approximately 100 km (60 miles) east of Skopje, the capital. Video footage shared on social media depicts the venue consumed by flames.
An estimated 1,500 people were in attendance for a concert featuring the hip-hop duo ADN, who are quite popular in the nation.
According to local news reports, the blaze might have been triggered by pyrotechnic effects, with recordings capturing sparks from the stage igniting the ceiling and spreading quickly. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski indicated that several arrests have been made.
In a statement on Facebook, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski affirmed that the government is “fully mobilised and will do everything necessary to address the aftermath and investigate the causes of this tragedy.”
He described the day as “difficult and very sad” for the nation, which has now mourned the loss of “so many” young lives.