Fire at North Macedonia Nightclub Kills 51 and Injures Over 100

Pyrotechnics ignited a blaze during a concert in Kočani, leaving devastation in its wake as authorities investigate safety failures.

The fire broke out at 2:35 a.m. during a concert at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, reportedly caused by sparks from pyrotechnic devices hitting a flammable ceiling.
The tragedy resulted in 51 fatalities and over 100 injuries, with victims suffering severe burns and being treated at hospitals across the country, including Skopje.
The venue, a converted carpet warehouse, was hosting a concert by the hip-hop duo DNK and was reportedly packed with approximately 1,500 attendees, including minors.
Authorities have arrested one individual and issued warrants for others as investigations focus on potential safety violations and licensing compliance.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski and international leaders have expressed condolences, with offers of assistance from neighboring countries to support recovery efforts.