By A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, has resulted in at least 51 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. local time during a concert by the popular hip-hop duo DNK, which attracted approximately 1,500 attendees.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the blaze was ignited by pyrotechnic devices used during the performance. Sparks from these devices reportedly set the club’s flammable ceiling material alight, causing the fire to spread rapidly throughout the venue.
The swift progression of the fire led to panic and a chaotic evacuation, resulting in numerous casualties from smoke inhalation and burns. Emergency responders transported the injured to hospitals in Kočani, Štip, and the capital city, Skopje, with several individuals suffering severe burns.
Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski confirmed the casualty figures and stated that arrests have been made as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident. He emphasized that authorities are committed to determining the exact causes of the tragedy and ensuring accountability for those responsible.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow over the loss of young lives, describing it as a “difficult and very sad day” for the nation. He assured the public that the government is fully mobilized to support the victims’ families and to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire.
This tragic event has cast a somber shadow over North Macedonia, as families and communities grapple with the immense loss and seek answers in the aftermath of the disaster.
