A massive fire broke out in a nightclub in the eastern town of Kocani, North Macedonia, early on Sunday. The blaze killed 51 people and injured over 100 others, local authorities reported.
The fire started around 2:35 a.m. during a performance by a local pop group at Pulse nightclub. According to Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, pyrotechnics set the roof alight. Video footage from the scene shows people running through thick smoke, while musicians urged the crowd to evacuate.
Rescue efforts and treatment of the injured
Officials took the injured to hospitals across the country, including Skopje. Many victims suffered severe burns. Volunteer organisations assisted in the effort to help the injured.
Health Minister Arben Taravari confirmed that 118 people had been hospitalised. He added that neighbouring countries, including Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece, offered assistance.
“We have mobilised all available resources to save as many lives as possible,” Taravari said, appearing visibly upset.
Investigation and messages of condolence
The nightclub was located in an old building that had once served as a carpet warehouse. Local media reported that it had operated as a club for several years.
The fire caused the roof of the single-storey building to partially collapse. Police cordoned off the site and sent forensic teams to investigate. State prosecutors are also involved.
Toshkovski said authorities would review the venue’s licensing and safety measures. He stressed that the government has a “moral responsibility” to hold those responsible accountable. Police arrested one person, but they have not yet disclosed further details.
The tragedy sparked an outpouring of sympathy from around Europe. Leaders from neighbouring countries and beyond sent messages of support.
The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, expressed her sorrow, saying she was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy. North Macedonia is a candidate for EU membership.
Other politicians, including Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also expressed condolences.
“I wish a speedy recovery to those injured. Ukraine mourns alongside our Macedonian friends on this sad day,” Zelenskyy wrote.
