Fire Breaks Out During Live Performance.
At least 51 people have died after a devastating nightclub fire in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday morning. The fire started at 2:35 AM, while a local pop band was performing, and was allegedly triggered by fireworks set off inside the venue, according to Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski. Emergency services rushed to the scene as flames rapidly engulfed the crowded venue, leaving chaos and destruction in their wake.
Panche Toshkovski
Minister of Internal Affairs of Macedonia
Authorities are still working to determine the full extent of the damage, but at least 100 people have been injured, Toshkovski confirmed. Victims are currently being treated at Kocani General Hospital, where families and loved ones have gathered anxiously awaiting updates. The public prosecutor’s office has yet to release an official death toll, but local reports suggest the number could rise as rescue operations continue.
In response to the catastrophic fire, North Macedonia’s Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski is traveling to Kocani to oversee relief efforts and ensure a thorough investigation. Authorities are working to determine whether proper safety measures were in place and if the use of fireworks indoors was legal. Officials are also reviewing emergency exit accessibility and fire code compliance in the nightclub.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves beyond North Macedonia, prompting condolences from international leaders. U.S. Ambassador to North Macedonia, Angela Aggeler, expressed her grief in a post on X:
"Our deepest condolences go to the victims and their loved ones at this awful time, and wishes for a speedy recovery to those who were injured."
Aggeler also offered assistance to the North Macedonian government, stating that the U.S. Embassy stands ready to support emergency response efforts.
As the community mourns the loss of so many young lives, authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the fire. Officials are expected to question nightclub staff, review security footage, and assess whether fire regulations were followed. This tragedy raises concerns about safety standards in entertainment venues across North Macedonia and could prompt stricter enforcement of fire prevention measures.
This horrific nightclub fire stands as one of the deadliest disasters in North Macedonia’s history. The sheer loss of life has left families shattered and the nation in mourning. As the community grapples with the devastating tragedy, many are demanding stronger safety regulations to prevent future incidents. While authorities work to determine what went wrong, the focus remains on supporting the victims, ensuring justice, and preventing such a catastrophe from happening again.
