Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — At least 59 people were killed and more than 150 others injured after a fire engulfed a nightclub in the city of Kocani, North Macedonia, in the early hours of Sunday (March 16).
“According to the information we have, 59 people have died, 35 of whom have been identified,” Interior Minister Pance Toskovski said at the scene in Kocani, as reported by AFP on Monday (March 17, 2025).
Authorities had previously reported 51 fatalities and more than 100 injuries. “As of midday, the latest information indicates that 155 people have been injured,” Toskovski stated.
Among the identified victims, 31 were residents of Kocani, where the concert took place, while four others were from the nearby city of Stip, Toskovski added. While injured victims have been transported to hospitals across the country for treatment, he said.
Fire Triggered by Pyrotechnics
According to Toskovski, the fire was caused by pyrotechnic devices used during the concert. The blaze reportedly ignited when fireworks set off during the performance caught the nightclub’s ceiling, which was made of highly flammable material.
The fire broke out around 3:00 a.m. local time. “Sparks triggered the blaze… and the flames spread rapidly inside the nightclub,” Toskovski told AFP.
A verified video from the event, obtained by Reuters, showed a band performing on stage, surrounded by two flares shooting white sparks into the air. The sparks ignited the ceiling above the performers, who were seen retreating before the footage abruptly ended.
Local television footage captured firefighters battling the remaining flames at the entrance of the nightclub, named ‘Pulse,’ which appeared charred and was still emitting smoke.
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Authorities have issued arrest warrants for four individuals in connection with the deadly fire. “A central arrest warrant has been issued for four people,” Toskovski confirmed.
Condolences from The Pope
North Macedonia Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed his condolences over the nightclub fire incident in a Facebook post.
“This is a difficult and deeply sorrowful day for Macedonia. Losing so many young lives is an irreplaceable loss, and the pain felt by their families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable,” Mickoski wrote.
“I urge all relevant agencies health services, law enforcement—to take immediate emergency measures to assist the victims and support their families.”
Pope Francis, currently receiving medical care at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, also sent prayers for the victims and survivors of the tragic nightclub fire on Sunday (March 16, 2025).
In a message conveyed through the Vatican’s Secretary of State, the Pope extended his condolences.
“The Holy Father wishes to express his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, most of whom were young people, and his spiritual closeness to those who are injured,” Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin wrote in a telegram addressed to Bishop Kiro Stojanov of Skopje.
(Raidi/Agung)
