At least 59 individuals lost their lives and 155 were injured in a devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia, as reported by the country's interior minister, Panche Toshkovski. The fire, which erupted during a pop concert in Kocani, was ignited by fireworks that set the roof ablaze, marking it as the most tragic incident in the nation’s recent history.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a "difficult and very sad day" for the country. Authorities have issued arrest warrants for four individuals linked to the incident. Among the deceased was a police officer who was on duty inside the club, tasked with checking for drugs or underage patrons. Of the 35 identified victims, 31 were residents of Kocani.
Angela Aggeler, the U.S. ambassador to North Macedonia, conveyed her condolences, highlighting the heartbreak of losing so many young lives in one community. The fire has stirred painful memories of a 2021 hospital blaze in Tetovo, which claimed 14 lives.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of nightclub fires globally, with similar tragedies occurring in Istanbul, Spain, Romania, and Brazil in recent years. In Kocani, the situation remains dire, with 20 individuals in critical condition, according to Health Minister Arben Taravari.
Ognen Cancarevik, a journalist for Telma, described the community's shock and anger, as residents demand accountability. Kocani, a small town with a largely agricultural economy, has seen many of its young people leave in search of better opportunities abroad, amid frustrations over low wages and corruption. Cancarevik noted the low morale in the region, emphasizing the devastating impact of losing young lives in such a tragedy.