A tragic fire at a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, on Sunday reportedly resulted in 59 fatalities and left at least 155 people injured.
The incident occurred during a live concert, primarily affecting young attendees due to smoke inhalation, burns, and a chaotic stampede as patrons rushed to escape the flames.
Witnesses reported that pyrotechnics used during the performance ignited the ceiling, quickly engulfing the nightclub in flames.
Videos shared on social media captured the moment the fire broke out, leading to a partial roof collapse and exposing debris within the venue.
Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski announced that 15 individuals had been detained for questioning.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the club was operating without a proper license and was significantly overcrowded, with more than double its official capacity of 250 people.
Survivors recounted harrowing experiences. One 19-year-old attendee, Marija Taseva, described struggling to escape through a toilet area, only to be trampled in the chaos.
Relatives of victims gathered outside hospitals, desperate for information. Local resident Dragi Stojanov shared his grief over the loss of his 21-year-old son, expressing devastation over the impact on families in the community.
North Macedonia’s president, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, visited victims in a Skopje hospital and emphasized the need for adequate medical care for those injured.
Neighboring countries, including Greece and Serbia, offered assistance, preparing to receive patients with severe injuries.
As the nation mourns, the incident raises critical questions about safety regulations in entertainment venues and the need for accountability in ensuring public safety.
The tragedy has left a profound impact on the community, with calls for justice and reform echoing in the aftermath.
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