At least 51 dead and more than 100 injured in nightclub fire

A devastating fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, during a hip-hop concert on March 16, 2025, resulting in at least 59 fatalities and injuring approximately 155 others. The blaze ignited around 2:35 a.m. local time when pyrotechnic devices used during the performance of the local hip-hop band DNK set the highly flammable ceiling alight, causing the fire to spread rapidly.

The nightclub was overcrowded, with over 1,500 attendees—double its permitted capacity—and lacked essential safety measures, including emergency exits and fire suppression systems. Tragically, many victims were young individuals aged between 14 and 24. Survivors reported chaotic scenes as patrons attempted to escape, with some sustaining severe burns and smoke inhalation.

Authorities have issued multiple arrest warrants, including for a former minister, amid allegations of high-level bribery and corruption that allowed the club to operate without proper licensing. One individual has been detained, and investigations are ongoing. The North Macedonian government has declared a seven-day mourning period and is conducting inspections of similar venues to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

This incident bears resemblance to previous nightclub fires, such as the 2015 Colectiv nightclub fire in Romania and the 2003 Station nightclub fire in the United States, both of which were also caused by indoor pyrotechnics igniting flammable materials, leading to significant loss of life.