The fire at the “Pulse” nightclub in Kochani has claimed its 61st victim. The second patient, who had been receiving treatment in Lithuania, passed away today, according to Health Minister Arben Taravari. The patient had been in critical condition since the beginning, he added.
Minister Taravari confirmed that 29-year-old Aleksandar Gavrilovski was transferred from the City Hospital on March 17 in severe condition. His condition began to deteriorate further on April 4.
“It is with sadness that I inform you that today at 11 AM, the second patient being treated in Lithuania, a 29-year-old who had been in critical condition from the start, passed away. He was transferred from the City Hospital on March 17 in severe condition, and from April 4, his condition worsened even more. As of yesterday, he was on dialysis,” Taravari said.
The Minister noted that Gavrilovski had 35% third-degree burns, as well as burns in his respiratory tract, making him one of the most critical patients. Two other patients remain in critical but stable condition, and authorities remain hopeful for their recovery.
“At the moment, 66 patients are being treated abroad, while 10 remain in the country. Except for the two critical cases, there are no other severe cases. We hope that no further bad news will follow,” Taravari concluded.
Gavrilovski’s death marks the second fatality among the 193 patients who have received treatment abroad, according to the Minister. Two more patients remain in critical condition.
The deadly fire at the “Pulse” nightclub in Kochani, North Macedonia, occurred on March 17, 2025, during a packed event. The blaze claimed the lives of 61 individuals, with dozens more sustaining severe injuries. Many of the victims suffered third-degree burns and respiratory damage. Over 190 individuals were treated for injuries, with several flown abroad for specialized care. The fire is one of the most devastating in the region’s recent history, prompting widespread grief and national calls for improved safety regulations in public venues.
