Fire in North Macedonia’s Pulse nightclub kills at least 51, injures over 100

A tragic incident unfolded in North Macedonia early Sunday morning as a fire broke out in a nightclub, claiming the lives of 51 people and leaving over 100 others injured. The devastating event occurred during a concert by a local pop group at the Pulse nightclub in the town of Kocani, sparked by pyrotechnic devices, as revealed by Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski.

The injured were swiftly transported to hospitals across the country, with many suffering from severe burns. Health Minister Arben Taravari reported that 118 individuals were hospitalized in the aftermath of the fire. Efforts were made to save as many lives as possible, with neighboring countries such as Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece offering assistance in the rescue operations.

The nightclub, housed in a former carpet warehouse, had been in operation for several years. The blaze ravaged the single-story building, causing a partial collapse of the roof. Law enforcement cordoned off the area as investigators gathered evidence from the scene.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, acknowledging the irreparable loss of numerous young lives and the immeasurable pain endured by families, friends, and loved ones. The government pledged to provide support and aid to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the calamity.

Authorities vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the licensing and safety protocols of the venue, emphasizing the government’s moral obligation to hold accountable those responsible for the incident. While one individual has been arrested in connection with the fire, details of their involvement were not disclosed.

The devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to strict safety standards in public establishments. As the community mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, support and solidarity are extended to all those affected by this harrowing event.