North Macedonia Nightclub Fire Kills 59, Injures Over 150

Deadly Fire at Kocani Nightclub

• 💔 A devastating fire at the unlicensed Pulse Nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, resulted in at least 59 deaths and over 150 injuries.
• ⚠️ The blaze began around 3:00 a.m. when flares used by a performing band ignited the ceiling, quickly spreading through the crowded venue.
• 🏃 Hundreds of people, estimated to be between 500 and 1,500, scrambled for the club's single exit, leading to a deadly crush.

Survivor Accounts and Hospital Scenes

• 💬 Survivor Maria Tasa described the panic, screaming, and the chaotic push for the exit, where she fell and was trampled before managing to escape.
• 😭 Relatives and friends gathered at the main hospital in Kocani, facing the grim task of identifying victims and comforting the injured.
• 🏥 Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Sov described the hospital as a scene of brutal chaos, with young parents identifying their children who were in their late teens or early twenties.

Investigation and Official Response

• ⚖️ Authorities arrested approximately 20 individuals, including the club manager, band members, and government officials, in connection with the fire.
• 💰 North Macedonia's Prime Minister stated that the club's license was issued illegally, suggesting involvement of graft and corruption.
• mourn North Macedonia declared seven days of national mourning for the victims, many of whom were young adults and minors.