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KOCANI, North Macedonia – A devastating fire engulfed a nightclub in the town of Kocani in the early hours of Sunday, leaving more than 50 people dead and dozens injured, according to the North Macedonian interior ministry.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze, which has shocked the nation and drawn international condolences.
The fire broke out at the nightclub, a popular venue in the small eastern town, at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time.
Witnesses reported hearing explosions before the flames quickly consumed the building. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, battling the inferno for hours before bringing it under control.
“We are facing one of the deadliest fires in our country’s recent history,” said North Macedonian Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski. “Rescue teams are still searching for survivors, and we fear the death toll may rise.”
Eyewitness Accounts and Rescue Efforts
Survivors described chaotic scenes as patrons tried to escape the rapidly spreading flames. Some managed to flee through emergency exits, while others were trapped inside the burning building. Local residents joined firefighters in efforts to rescue those still inside.
“I saw people jumping from the second floor to escape the fire,” said Ivan Stojanov, a Kocani resident who helped pull survivors from the wreckage. “It was horrifying—people were screaming for help.”
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire but have stated that an electrical fault or a gas explosion may be to blame. Officials are also investigating whether the nightclub complied with fire safety regulations.
Israel Offers Medical Assistance
Following the tragedy, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar extended condolences to North Macedonia and announced that Israeli medical experts would be dispatched to assist with treating the wounded.
“Israel stands by North Macedonia in this difficult time,” Sa’ar wrote on X (formerly Twitter), alongside Israeli and North Macedonian flags.
North Macedonian Foreign Minister Timco Mucunski expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “In these difficult moments, the solidarity of our partners and friends is truly invaluable to us.”
National Mourning and Investigations Underway
North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski declared three days of national mourning, with flags at half-mast and public events canceled in memory of the victims.
The government has vowed to hold nightclub owners accountable if safety violations are found. “We will ensure that justice is served,” Mickoski said. “No family should suffer such a tragedy due to negligence.”
As the country grieves, families of the victims await answers while hospitals work tirelessly to treat the injured. With international aid on the way and a renewed focus on fire safety, North Macedonia faces the painful process of healing after one of its worst disasters in recent memory.