Tragedy in North Macedonia: 59 Dead in Nightclub Inferno — Nation in Shock

A catastrophic fire tore through a crowded nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday, claiming 59 lives and leaving over 150 injured in one of the country's deadliest disasters in recent history.

The blaze erupted shortly after 3 a.m. as a live band performed in the "Pulse" nightclub. According to official reports, sparks from two flares used during the show ignited the ceiling, turning a night of celebration into a nightmare. The venue, which was operating without a valid license, quickly became a death trap for the approximately 500 people inside.

Panic spread rapidly as partygoers scrambled to escape through the club's only exit, many becoming trapped as flames engulfed the roof. Emotional testimonies from survivors reveal the chaos and horror. Marija Taseva, 22, who survived with injuries, recounted how she lost her sister in the stampede: "Fire broke out, everyone was screaming. I fell, people stepped on me. My sister didn’t make it."

Authorities confirmed that over 20 minors were among the injured and deceased. The nightclub's manager and about 20 others, including government officials suspected of involvement in the illegal license, have been arrested. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski stated that a full investigation is underway to hold everyone accountable.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski denounced the illegal license issuance and vowed justice "regardless of who they are, what party, or position." He announced a seven-day national mourning period as grief and anger spread across the country.

Images from the scene show the club's corrugated metal roof collapsed, charred wooden beams exposed, and the interior completely destroyed. Hospitals in Kocani, Skopje, and nearby towns are treating over 150 injured, including 20 in critical condition.

As families search for missing loved ones and communities grieve, this tragedy has sparked urgent calls for stricter safety regulations and accountability.