At least 51 people have died, and more than 100 have been hospitalized following a deadly fire at a nightclub in Kochani, Interior Minister Pance Toshkovski said on Sunday. Several people have been detained in connection with the incident, he added.
According to Toshkovski, the blaze was triggered by sparks from pyrotechnics used for a light show.
“The sparks likely ignited the ceiling, which was made of highly flammable material. The fire spread rapidly, producing thick smoke,” Toshkovski explained.
“With deep sorrow, I inform the public that 51 lives have been lost so far, and more than 100 people are receiving medical treatment. The Interior Ministry is taking all necessary measures to determine responsibility,” he said.
Toshkovski announced regular press briefings to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.
North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has postponed his trip to Podgorica, where the EPP summit is scheduled to take place tomorrow. Mickoski will also request a postponement of the Western Balkans summit, set for Wednesday and Thursday, his office announced.
PM Mickoski Offers Condolences and Support
Mickoski expressed deep sorrow over the devastating nightclub fire in Kochani, calling it a “dark and profoundly sad day” for the country.
“I received the news of the terrible tragedy in Kochani with deep sorrow. This is a heavy and very sad day for North Macedonia. The loss of so many young lives is irreplaceable, and the pain of their families, loved ones, and friends is immeasurable,” Mickoski said in a statement.
“In these moments of profound grief, our thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I wish the injured a swift recovery and the families of the victims the strength to endure this unimaginable loss. The people and the government will do everything in their power to ease their pain, even if only slightly, and to support them in these darkest moments.”
Mickoski urged all relevant institutions — health services, police, and local authorities — to take immediate measures to assist the injured and support the affected families. He emphasized that the government is fully mobilized and will take all necessary actions to manage the aftermath and determine the cause of the tragedy.
“Later today, after reviewing the circumstances with the relevant institutions, I will address the public with further information on the steps being taken. In these times of deep sorrow, when our hearts are broken by this terrible tragedy, I call for unity, solidarity, compassion, and responsibility.
“May God be with the families of the victims and the injured, and with the people of North Macedonia,” Mickoski concluded.
