Massive fire at Europe's North Macedonia nightclub leaves 51 dead, 100+ injured

A catastrophic fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani has claimed at least 51 lives and left over 100 injured, in what is being described as one of the deadliest nightclub fires in recent European history. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Sunday during a live performance by ADN, a popular hip-hop duo, with approximately 1,500 people inside the venue.

According to Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, victims have been rushed to hospitals in Kocani, Stip, and Skopje, while emergency responders battled the inferno for hours. “As per our current data, 51 people have lost their lives, and over 100 are injured,” Toshkovski told reporters.

Authorities suspect pyrotechnic effects used during the concert may have triggered the fire. Toshkovski explained that sparks from stage equipment ignited the nightclub’s ceiling, made of highly flammable material, causing flames to spread rapidly. Thick smoke engulfed the venue within minutes, making escape difficult.

Disturbing videos circulating online show the nightclub engulfed in flames, with attendees desperately trying to flee. Footage appears to capture sparks from the stage setting off a chain reaction, leading to the fire’s swift escalation. Witnesses reported scenes of panic as people struggled to exit through limited emergency exits.

The Pulse nightclub fire has raised serious concerns over safety measures and fire regulations at entertainment venues. Investigators are now working to determine whether fire safety protocols were violated and if there was any negligence in handling pyrotechnics inside an enclosed space.

Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation, and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has assured the public that those responsible will be held accountable. Meanwhile, rescue workers continue to search for survivors as North Macedonia reels from the devastating loss of life in Kocani.