SKOPJE, North Macedonia — The aftermath of last month’s devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia has worsened, as authorities report a rise in the death toll to 61. This increase follows the death of a second critically injured victim who was receiving medical treatment in Lithuania. The North Macedonian Health Ministry announced on Tuesday that a 29-year-old man, suffering from severe burns and respiratory issues, succumbed to his injuries on Monday. This marks the second patient to have died in Lithuania within the past week.
The tragic fire broke out on March 16 during a pyrotechnic show at a live concert held inside a bustling indoor nightclub located in the eastern town of Kocani. Prosecutors have detailed that approximately 650 individuals were present during the incident, and most of the victims were young attendees.
Currently, seven victims with injuries are still recovering in North Macedonia’s hospitals, while a further 64 individuals have been transported for treatment to various hospitals across Europe. The Health Minister, Arben Taravari, provided this update amidst ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the disaster.
Authorities are actively investigating possible breaches of fire safety protocols alongside unlawful operational permits. So far, 34 individuals remain detained, which includes a former finance minister and seven high-ranking police officials. Prosecutors have indicated that all but one of the defendants could face maximum sentences of up to 20 years if found guilty.