A devastating fire at Club Pulse in Kocani, North Macedonia, killed 59 people early Sunday, reportedly ignited by on-stage fireworks, authorities confirmed. Arrest warrants have been issued for four individuals as a criminal investigation begins.
The blaze erupted around 3 a.m., as over 1,000 concertgoers attended a performance by hip-hop duo DNK.
“Initially we didn’t believe there was a fire. Then there was huge panic in the crowd and a stampede to get out,” a young woman at the concert told local media outside a Skopje hospital.
Firefighters and paramedics responded swiftly but could not save everyone.
Interior Minister Pance Toskovski confirmed the fire was likely caused by pyrotechnics, with flammable ceiling material fueling the rapid spread of thick smoke.
“Sparks caught the ceiling, which was made of easily flammable material, after which the fire rapidly spread across the whole discotheque, creating thick smoke,” Toskovski said.
At least 155 people were injured, with 18 in critical condition. Some will be transported to European hospitals for advanced treatment, said Crisis Centre head Stojanche Angelov.
Hospital chief Kristina Serafimovska reported patients between 14 and 25 years old, with 70 suffering burns and carbon monoxide poisoning. DNK performer Vladimir Blazev sustained facial burns and breathing difficulties.
Authorities have identified 35 victims, with 31 from Kocani and four from Stip, Toskovski stated.
“This is a difficult and very sad day,” Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski posted on Facebook.
“The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the grief of their families, their loved ones, and their friends is immeasurable.”
Neighboring Bulgaria, Greece, and Albania offered medical assistance, while EU leaders expressed condolences. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov called the fire “a huge human tragedy,” while Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis assured, “Greece stands ready to assist.”
Videos circulating online showed indoor fireworks moments before the fire and footage of flames engulfing the nightclub. Military medical teams have arrived in Kocani to assist local hospitals.
The tragedy raises serious concerns about safety regulations in entertainment venues, with authorities vowing a full investigation.