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A nightclub fire in North Macedonia early Sunday morning resulted in the deaths of 51 people and injuries to over 100, officials reported.

According to Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski, speaking to reporters, pyrotechnics ignited at approximately 2:35 a.m. during a performance by a local pop group at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani.

Reuters reported Toshkovski saying, “Sparks caused fire…and fire spread through the discotheque.”

The injured were transported to hospitals throughout the country. Officials noted that many sustained severe burns.

Arben Taravari stated that 118 individuals were hospitalized.

Taravari told reporters, “All our capabilities have been utilized, making the maximum effort to save as many lives as possible of the young people involved in this tragedy,” and added that Albania, Bulgaria, and Greece have offered assistance.

Local media outlet MKD reports that the club was located in a former carpet warehouse and had been operating for several years.

The fire completely destroyed the single-story building, causing a partial roof collapse. Police have secured the area and are collecting evidence from inside the building.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski posted on X, “This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia. The loss of so many young lives is irreplaceable, and the pain of the families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable.”

He continued, “The people and the government will do everything in their power to at least slightly alleviate their pain and help them in these most difficult moments.”

Toshkovski stated that authorities will investigate the venue’s licensing and safety measures, adding that the government has a “moral responsibility” to help prosecute those responsible. Police have already, but he didn’t specify the person’s role.

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