Loading...

mosque
partly-cloudy
°C,

Fire in North Macedonia restaurant claims 59 lives

March 16, 2025 / 9:34 PM
Fire in North Macedonia restaurant claims 59 lives
download-img
North Macedonian police officers work at the site of the fire
Sharjah 24 – AFP: A devastating fire broke out in the Club Pulse restaurant in Kocani, North Macedonia, early Sunday morning, killing 59 people and injuring 155 others. The blaze, believed to have been triggered by fireworks on stage, engulfed the venue, which was hosting a concert by the popular hip-hop duo DNK.

Fire ignites during concert

The fire started around 2:30 AM and quickly spread, leading to panic and a stampede as concertgoers tried to escape. The pyrotechnic devices used for lighting effects ignited the flammable material on the ceiling, causing rapid spread and thick smoke.

Panic and stampede result in further casualties

Authorities have issued arrest warrants for four individuals in connection with the fire, and a criminal investigation is underway. Many of the victims died from injuries sustained during the stampede while attempting to flee. Among the injured, some suffered burns and carbon monoxide poisoning. The concert's performers also sustained injuries, with one member of DNK requiring medical assistance.

Government response and international condolences

In response, the government declared a seven-day mourning period and promised urgent inspections of all local restaurants and venues. International leaders, including Pope Francis and officials from neighboring countries, expressed their condolences and offered support. The EU also shared its sorrow, with foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressing deep sadness over the tragedy.

March 16, 2025 / 9:34 PM

Related Topics

More on this Topic

Rotate For an optimal experience, please
rotate your device to portrait mode.