A tragic fire broke out early Sunday at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia. The Macedonia Deadly Nightclub Fire started around 2:35 a.m. while a local pop group was performing. Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said pyrotechnics used during the concert caused the roof to catch fire. Videos from inside the club showed young people running through thick smoke as musicians urged them to escape as quickly as possible. The fire spread rapidly, turning the nightclub into a deadly trap. Authorities confirmed that 51 people lost their lives, and more than 100 others were injured.
Many Injured Victims Rushed to Hospitals Across the Country
Officials reported that many of the injured were taken to hospitals across North Macedonia, including the capital, Skopje. Several victims of the Macedonia deadly nightclub fire suffered severe burns, and emergency responders worked tirelessly to treat them. Multiple volunteer organizations joined the rescue efforts, providing crucial support. Health Minister Arben Taravari said a total of 118 people were hospitalized. He also mentioned that neighboring countries, including Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece, had offered medical assistance. Authorities are doing everything possible to save the lives of those who survived the devastating fire.
Prime Minister Calls It a National Tragedy and Promises Support
This fire is one of the worst disasters in North Macedonia’s recent history. The country has a population of less than 2 million people, making the loss even more significant. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed deep sorrow, calling it a difficult and heartbreaking day for the nation. He promised that the government would provide support to the victims’ families. He also stated that authorities would do everything in their power to ease the pain of those affected. Family members of the victims of the Macedonia nightclub fire gathered outside hospitals and city offices in Kocani, desperately seeking information about their loved ones.
Nightclub Operated in an Old Warehouse Without Proper Safety Measures
Reports from local media revealed that the nightclub was operating in an old carpet warehouse. The fire caused the roof of the single-story building to collapse, leaving behind charred wooden beams and debris. Investigators arrived at the scene and cordoned off the area. Police and state prosecutors are now examining the remains of the building to determine if safety violations contributed to the tragedy. Authorities have already arrested one person, but details about their involvement have not been disclosed. Interior Minister Toshkovski confirmed that officials would review the club’s safety licenses and take legal action if violations are found. This is a critical step in understanding the causes behind the Macedonia deadly nightclub event.
World Leaders Send Condolences as Investigation Continues
The deadly nightclub fire has drawn international attention. Leaders from neighboring countries and across Europe expressed their condolences. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, shared her sorrow, saying that the EU stands with North Macedonia during this painful time. North Macedonia is currently a candidate for EU membership. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, European Commissioner Marta Kos, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also sent messages of support. Zelenskyy wrote that Ukraine mourns alongside North Macedonia and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The country now faces a long investigation to uncover the full details of the disaster and prevent future tragedies like the Macedonia deadly nightclub fire.
