A devastating fire broke out in a nightclub in Kocani early Sunday, killing 51 people and injuring more than 100, North Macedonian Interior Minister Pance Toskovski confirmed.
The blaze, triggered by pyrotechnic devices used during a live concert, spread rapidly through the club. “Sparks caused fire…and fire spread through the discotheque,” Toskovski stated. A video showed flares igniting the ceiling as a band performs, moments before the recording cuts off.
Local TV footage showed firefighters battling the smoldering remains of the club, identified as ‘Pulse’. North Macedonia’s public broadcaster MRT reported that 27 victims suffered severe burns and were hospitalised in Skopje, while 23 others received treatment at the Clinical Center. Minors were among the injured.
The fire erupted at approximately 03.00 am. Authorities are investigating the tragedy, as questions mount over safety protocols at the venue.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said in a post on Facebook: “This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia! The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, the pain of the families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable.” “I call on all competent institutions – health services, relevant authorities – to take urgent measures to assist the injured and support the families of the families,” he added.
(With inputs from Reuters)