On March 16, 2025, tragedy struck Club Pulse in Kocani, North Macedonia, as a ferocious fire broke out during a concert, claiming the lives of 59 people and injuring at least 155 others. The disaster unfolded around 3 AM local time when sparks from pyrotechnic devices ignited the club's ceiling, which was made from highly flammable material. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as concertgoers fled the inferno, marking one of the deadliest incidents in recent memory for the country.
Details surrounding the fire are still being investigated, but Interior Minister Pance Toskovski suggested the use of indoor fireworks during the concert by the popular hip-hop duo DNK as the initial cause. “The sparks caught the ceiling, which was made of easily flammable material, after which the fire rapidly spread across the whole discotheque, creating thick smoke,” Toskovski said during his visit to the scene.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed his deep sorrow on social media, calling it “a difficult and very sad day” for the nation. He emphasized the incalculable loss of young lives, stating, “The pain of the families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable.” His sentiments echoed throughout the country as families awaited news about their missing relatives at local hospitals.
Initial reports indicate there were around 1,500 attendees at the concert, mostly young people aged between 14 and 25. The situation escalated quickly, with concertgoers describing the moment the fire started. “We didn’t believe there was a fire at first. Then there was huge panic and a stampede to get out,” recounted one survivor. Many were trampled as they rushed for limited exits, and horrific scenes unfolded inside the club.
The severity of the injuries has prompted the North Macedonian Crisis Centre to prepare for the transport of critically injured patients to hospitals across Europe. Among the hospitalized, many are suffering from severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Even as emergency services worked tirelessly, the impact on local hospitals was intense. Kristina Serafimovska, head of Kocani General Hospital, confirmed patients affected, saying, “Seventy of the patients have burns and carbon monoxide poisoning.” Several of those impacted remain unidentified due to the lack of identification documents among the victims.
By noon on March 16, authorities had issued arrest warrants for four individuals believed to be related to the incident, raising questions about safety protocols within the club. Local media has suggested the owner was among those detained as authorities conduct thorough investigations.
The incident has drawn overwhelming responses from regional leaders, with condolences flooding in from neighboring countries. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić expressed his sympathies, stating, “Heartbroken by the loss of so many young people. My thoughts go out to all the families of the victims.” Likewise, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov offered assistance, including medical evacuation for those who need urgent care. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis extended help and heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the need for solidarity during this challenging time.
Beyond neighboring nations, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, expressed her sadness at the tragedy, stating, “The EU shares the grief and pain of the people of North Macedonia.”
The government is set to declare seven days of national mourning to honor the victims. Amidst heartbreaking stories from families searching for their loved ones, the broader community has joined together, rallying for support and assistance for those affected by the fire.
Reflecting on the human toll this disaster has wrought, Dragi Stojanov, father of one of the deceased, recounted grimly, “He was my only child. I don’t need my life anymore.” Such sorrow highlights the deep scars left behind by the tragedy.
This catastrophic event has prompted local authorities to initiate immediate inspections and reviews of safety measures across nightclubs and entertainment venues throughout the country to prevent future incidents. The wealth of evidence showing overlooked safety protocols has cast a shadow over Kocani and the entire nation, sparking discussions on regulatory compliance and public safety practices.
Meanwhile, mourning continues, underscored by the poignant messages from Pope Francis, who conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased, particularly those of the youth lost too soon. The Vatican’s message expressed closeness to those affected, wishing them healing and comfort.
With lives shattered and families forever changed, this fire at Club Pulse serves as not only a call for accountability but also emphasizes the pressing need for comprehensive safety reforms to safeguard lives at entertainment venues. The tragedy resonates far beyond the borders of North Macedonia, touching hearts and elevatings safety standards throughout the region—in memory of those lost.