A devastating fire at a nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, has claimed the lives of at least 60 people and injured over 155 others, many suffering from severe burns. The fire erupted during a concert by the hip-hop duo DNK, sparked by pyrotechnics used for lighting effects. The flames quickly spread due to the club’s flammable ceiling, leading to a chaotic stampede as attendees tried to escape.
Among the victims was the band’s singer, Andrej Gorgieski, who tragically lost his life after re-entering the burning building to help others. Several minors were also among those killed, deepening the sorrow of the tragedy.
Neighboring countries, including Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia, have offered their support in the wake of the disaster. North Macedonia’s Prime Minister, Hristijan Mickoski, expressed profound grief and called for national unity, urging citizens to stand with the affected families.
Social media videos captured the chaos as the band pleaded with concertgoers to evacuate, underscoring the horror of the situation. The tragedy has left the Balkan region in mourning, with U.S. Ambassador Angela Aggeler offering condolences and assistance. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the people of North Macedonia during this heartbreaking time.
