Macedonian Interior Minister confirms 51 dead, 100 injured in Kočani fire

(Patria) - Macedonian Interior Minister Panče Toškovski announced that at least 51 people died and more than 100 were injured in a tragic fire at a nightclub in Kočani. The concert organizers and the nightclub owner have been taken into custody.

"The fire was caused by sparks from pyrotechnics used for lighting effects at the concert. When the sprinklers were activated, sparks likely flew to the ceiling, which was made of flammable material, and the fire quickly spread, creating thick smoke," Toškovski stated.

"Ambulances and firefighters from neighboring towns arrived shortly after. Helicopters from the Ministry of Interior were immediately activated," he added.

Incidentally, the very popular Macedonian hip-hop group DNK was performing at the nightclub. The audience at the concert, which started at midnight, consisted mostly of young people.

The fire broke out around 3 a.m.

Officials from the Government of North Macedonia, led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, arrived at the scene.

Prime Minister Mickoski also posted on X, where regional leaders are expressing their condolences.

"I received the news of the terrible tragedy in Kočani with deep sorrow. This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia! The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable.

In these moments of deep sorrow, our thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured, and strength to the families of the deceased to bear this unimaginable loss. The people and the Government will do everything in their power to at least slightly ease their pain and help them in these most difficult moments.

I call on all competent institutions – healthcare, police, local authorities – to take urgent measures to help the injured and support the affected families. The Government is fully mobilized and will do everything necessary to deal with the consequences and determine the causes of this tragedy.

During the day, after reviewing the circumstances with the competent institutions, I will address the public with more information about the steps taken.

In these moments of deep sorrow, when our hearts are broken with pain over this terrible tragedy, I call for unity, solidarity, humanity, and responsibility.

May God be with the families of the victims and the injured, and with the people of Macedonia!" wrote the Prime Minister of North Macedonia.