59 Dead in Devastating Nightclub Fire During Concert in North Macedonia

A pyrotechnics-induced blaze tore through a packed nightclub in Kočani, leaving dozens dead and over 150 injured, with investigations pointing to inadequate safety measures.

The fire erupted early Sunday morning during a concert by the popular local hip-hop group DNK at the 'Pulse' nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia.
Pyrotechnics used during the performance ignited the club's flammable ceiling material, causing the fire to spread rapidly through the overcrowded venue, which held approximately 1,500 attendees.
At least 59 people have been confirmed dead, including three minors, while 155 others were injured, with 22 in critical condition and some transferred to hospitals in other countries.
Authorities have arrested multiple individuals, including event organizers and club staff, as investigations highlight potential corruption and the club's lack of a valid operating license.
The North Macedonian government has declared a seven-day state of mourning, with international offers of medical assistance coming from neighboring countries like Bulgaria and Albania.