On Sunday, local authorities reported a devastating fire at a nightclub in Kocani, a southern city in North Macedonia, that resulted in the loss of numerous lives. At least 59 individuals, all aged between 18 and 23, were confirmed dead, according to Pance Toshkovski, the North Macedonian Minister of Interior, during a news conference. Among the victims was a police officer who was present at the nightclub on duty.
Dr. Kristina Serafimova, head of the Kocani General Hospital, detailed the tragic circumstances surrounding the casualties, revealing that the victims succumbed to smoke inhalation, burns, and a stampede triggered by the inferno. Notably, there was only one exit from the nightclub, a factor that likely exacerbated the situation. Additionally, around 155 people were reported injured in the incident, all aged between 14 and 24. Out of this number, approximately 10 individuals are in critical condition and currently on respirators.
Authorities have issued arrest warrants for four individuals as part of the ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire and potential safety violations at the venue. Minister Toshkovski stated that the Ministry of Economy and the Public Prosecutor's Office are actively gathering documentation related to the nightclub and those responsible for this tragic event.
A switchboard operator at one of the hospitals treating the victims described the situation as a "catastrophic tragedy." The manager of the band DNK, which was performing at the time of the fire, disclosed that the venue had a maximum capacity of 500 to 700 people. Some band members were among the injured during the incident. As the community grieves, families of those who attended the concert, including some underage individuals, have taken to social media to seek information about their missing loved ones. Many of the victims were not carrying identification, complicating the identification process.
The blaze erupted around 2:35 a.m. local time, as confirmed by Minister Toshkovski, who indicated that pyrotechnics used by attendees ignited the nightclub's roof. Following the fire, police apprehended one suspect, although further details regarding this arrest have not been disclosed.
North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow over the loss of young lives, stating that the pain experienced by families, friends, and loved ones is immeasurable. He assured the public that the government is fully mobilized to address the consequences of this tragedy and to uncover its causes. In a message of solidarity, Mickoski called for unity and responsibility during this time of immense grief.
International condolences have poured in, including a message from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who expressed his wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured and offered condolences to the North Macedonian people. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama also extended his nation's readiness to assist in any way necessary, while European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed her deep sorrow over the tragedy.
This remains a developing story, and updates will continue to emerge as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding this horrific incident. For more information on the ongoing situation in Kocani and the nightclub fire, please check back for updates.
