At least 59 individuals have been reported dead after a fire outbreak at an illegal nightclub in North Macedonia’s southern city of Kocani.
Those who were confirmed dead were between the ages of 18 and 23. It was a disturbing sight to behold. The government is also holding the local authorities accountable for collecting bribes and allowing the club to remain open.
About 155 others have also been injured, including a police officer who was enjoying himself at the illegal nightclub, on duty.
On the night of the incident, the nightclub was packed to capacity and even overflowing. Yet, there was only one exit for people to escape the fire and everyone was trying to survive. So, not a lot of attendees left the club unscathed. Some of the victims were crushed by stampede while everyone was trying to escape. The rest died from extreme burns and smoke inhalation.
The authorities are yet to identify what started the fire. However, they are questioning a few people whom they suspect of wrongdoing. Most of the attendees on the night of the incident were also minors, and more of them got injured.
Dr. Kristina Serafimova, the head of the Kocani General Hospital said several victims are in critical conditions.
In a statement about the tragic event on X, North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski wrote, “The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of the families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable.”
“The government is fully mobilized and will do everything necessary to deal with the consequences and determine the causes of this tragedy,” Mickoski added. “In these times of deep sadness, when our hearts are broken with pain due to this tragedy, I call for unity, solidarity, humanity, and responsibility.”
