Deadly Nightclub Fire in North Macedonia

A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, has left 59 people dead and 155 injured. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, around 02:30 local time (01:30 GMT), during a concert by the popular hip-hop duo DNK. Authorities have detained ten individuals as part of an ongoing investigation into the cause and accountability of the tragic event.

The nightclub, which reportedly lacked a proper operating license, was packed with around 500 attendees at the time of the fire. The blaze started when sparks from pyrotechnic devices ignited the highly flammable ceiling. Video footage shows the band performing when two flares went off, causing a rapid spread of flames. Initial reports indicate that only one member of DNK survived and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Eyewitness accounts describe chaos and panic as concertgoers rushed toward the only functioning exit. The venue’s back door was locked, trapping many inside. Survivors recounted their terrifying experiences of being crushed and trampled in the stampede.

Authorities have detained ten individuals believed to be responsible for the fire, including officials from the ministries that issued the club’s license. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski revealed that the venue was operating illegally, and investigators are probing potential links to bribery and corruption.

Biljana Arsovska, a spokesperson for the public prosecutor’s office, stated that initial inspections revealed serious safety violations, including a deficient fire-extinguishing system and improper lighting arrangements. The failures of the Ark lay at least partially responsible for its subsequently high casualty rate.

Marija Taseva, a 20-year-old concertgoer, shared her harrowing escape. She described being caught in the crush as people frantically tried to exit. “I fell to the ground, and people ran over me. I don’t know how, but I managed to get out,” she said. Tragically, her 25-year-old sister was among the deceased.

Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Saidov reported that most of the victims were young adults aged 18 to 20. Over 20 of the injured and at least three of the deceased were under the age of 18. Emergency responders faced difficulties identifying many victims due to the lack of ID cards.

Dr. Vladislav Gruev, a specialist in reconstructive and plastic surgery, reported that most patients suffered second- and third-degree burns on their heads, necks, and upper torsos. The local hospital in Kocani struggled to cope with the influx of critically injured patients, with 18 in a life-threatening condition.

To ensure better medical care, the most seriously injured have been transferred to specialist clinics in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey. Local hospital staff and emergency responders are working tirelessly to provide necessary aid to those affected.

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North Macedonia’s Prime Minister, Hristijan Mickoski, expressed deep sorrow, calling it a “difficult and very sad day” for the nation. He announced seven days of national mourning in honor of the victims.

President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova also issued an emotional statement, saying, “Your immense pain is mine too.” She emphasized the importance of strict safety regulations, urging the authorities to prevent future tragedies caused by negligence.

International leaders have extended their condolences, with European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen stating that the EU “stands in solidarity with the people of North Macedonia.” Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called it “a tragedy of immense magnitude” and warned that the number of casualties could rise as more injured struggle to recover.

The Pulse nightclub was an improvised venue, previously used as a carpet warehouse. Its lack of proper safety measures and emergency exits proved fatal. The fire highlights the dire need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in entertainment venues.

Investigators are now looking into the licensing process and whether corruption played a role in allowing an unsafe venue to operate. This tragic event has reignited discussions on nightclub safety across the country, with citizens demanding accountability and reform.

As investigations continue, authorities must take swift action to hold those responsible accountable and implement stronger safety measures. The tragedy has left a deep wound in the nation, especially for the families of the victims who lost their loved ones in such a horrific manner.

The government’s emergency session is expected to result in stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Families of the deceased and injured are calling for justice, demanding that those responsible be held accountable for their negligence.