In the early hours of Sunday, a devastating fire erupted at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, resulting in the deaths of at least 59 individuals and injuring over 150 others.
The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. during a concert by the local hip-hop group DNK. Preliminary investigations suggest that pyrotechnic effects ignited the club’s ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of the fire. The venue was reportedly at full capacity, with approximately 1,500 attendees, primarily between the ages of 14 and 24.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as patrons attempted to escape the inferno. Emergency services responded promptly, transporting the injured to hospitals across the country, including facilities in the capital, Skopje. Health Minister Arben Taravari reported that 118 individuals have been hospitalized, with several in critical condition.
Authorities have initiated a thorough investigation into the tragedy. Arrest warrants have been issued for four individuals, including the club’s owner, who has been detained. Officials are scrutinizing the establishment’s licensing and safety protocols to determine compliance with regulations.
The nation is in mourning, with President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressing profound sorrow over the loss of life. Both leaders have pledged comprehensive support to the victims’ families and a meticulous investigation to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This incident marks one of the most severe nightclub fires in recent history, drawing condolences and offers of assistance from neighboring countries and European leaders. The focus now rests on providing medical care to the injured and conducting a detailed inquiry into the circumstances leading to this catastrophic event.
