North Macedonia is observing a week-long mourning period after a devastating nightclub fire in Kočani, where at least 59 people were killed and over 155 injured, with reports suggesting many victims were teenagers and young adults. The blaze occurred at the Pulse nightclub during a hip-hop concert, triggered by pyrotechnic devices. Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski stated that the club lacked a proper operating license, hinting at possible corruption. Authorities detained 15 individuals for questioning, with more under investigation, some of whom are in police custody while others are receiving medical treatment. The fire, believed to have started around 2:35 AM local time, highlights serious safety concerns, including the club’s sole exit point and lack of fire extinguishers. The incident marks the highest loss of life in North Macedonia since the early 1990s, prompting the government to announce increased safety inspections across similar venues. Neighboring countries and the European Union have extended their condolences and aid to North Macedonia, while the Vatican reported Pope Francis’s prayers for the victims and survivors.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/16/north-macedonia-mourning-nightclub-fire-kocani