The death toll from a fire that engulfed a nightclub in North Macedonia during a performance by a well-known local hip-hop duo has increased to 59, according to the country’s interior minister.
“Based on our current information, there are 59 fatalities, with 35 individuals identified,” stated Interior Minister Pance Toskovski at the scene in Kocani, noting that arrest warrants had been issued for four individuals in relation to the incident.
Previously, officials had reported 51 deaths from the fire, which erupted at the ‘Pulse’ nightclub in Kocani around 3 AM local time, where fans had gathered to watch the hip-hop group DNK.
“As of noon (11 AM Irish time), the latest count of the injured stands at 155,” Mr. Toskovski added.
The fire occurred at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani (Pic: Radio Kocani)
Of the identified deceased, thirty-one were residents of Kocani, the eastern town where the concert was held, while an additional four were from the nearby town of Stip, the minister noted.
Mr. Toskovski indicated that the injured were transported to “hospitals throughout the country.”
Mr. Toskovski explained that the fire ignited after the concert’s pyrotechnic displays set fire to the ceiling, which was made of highly flammable material.
“Central arrest warrants have been issued for four individuals,” Mr. Toskovski confirmed.
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A video from the event, authenticated by Reuters, depicts a band performing on stage with flares shooting white sparks into the air.
The sparks ignited the ceiling above the band.
Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed that he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and to the people of North Macedonia,” he stated.
In a related gesture, a hospitalized Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims and survivors of the fire.
The Pope wished “to convey to the families of the deceased, most of whom were young, his deep condolences, reflecting his spiritual closeness to the injured,” according to a telegram from Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin addressed to the bishop of Skopje, Kiro Stojanov.
An aerial view of the venue in Kocani
North Macedonia’s MRT public broadcaster reported that 27 individuals were admitted to Skopje City Hospital with severe burns, while another 23 were receiving treatment at the Clinical Center.
According to state agency MIA, approximately 1,500 people were present at the concert.
Around 1,500 concertgoers were at the nightclub when the fire broke out.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski remarked on Facebook: “This is a difficult and profoundly sad day for Macedonia! The loss of so many young lives is irreplaceable; the grief of the families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable.
