At least 51 individuals lost their lives and approximately 100 others were injured during a tragic fire that broke out inside a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday morning. According to government spokeswoman Marija Miteva, the blaze ignited during a pop concert when fireworks were set off, setting the club's roof ablaze.
In a news briefing, interior minister Panche Toshkovski expressed condolences over the incident, referring to the event as a difficult day for the nation. North Macedonia's Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski shared his sorrow on social media, stating, “The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of the families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable.”
As investigations continue, the local public prosecutor's office in Kocani is working diligently to assess the full extent of the tragedy. Angela Aggeler, the U.S. ambassador to North Macedonia, also voiced her heartbreak over the disaster, emphasizing the impact on the tight-knit community and its youth.
This incident raises serious questions regarding crowd safety and emergency preparedness at public events. Authorities have vowed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The community of Kocani, located approximately 50 miles east of Skopje, remains in mourning, as the nation reflects on the life lost during a night meant for celebration.
In a news briefing, interior minister Panche Toshkovski expressed condolences over the incident, referring to the event as a difficult day for the nation. North Macedonia's Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski shared his sorrow on social media, stating, “The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of the families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable.”
As investigations continue, the local public prosecutor's office in Kocani is working diligently to assess the full extent of the tragedy. Angela Aggeler, the U.S. ambassador to North Macedonia, also voiced her heartbreak over the disaster, emphasizing the impact on the tight-knit community and its youth.
This incident raises serious questions regarding crowd safety and emergency preparedness at public events. Authorities have vowed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The community of Kocani, located approximately 50 miles east of Skopje, remains in mourning, as the nation reflects on the life lost during a night meant for celebration.
