Police detained 15 people after a fire killed at least 59 at a nightclub in North Macedonia. Officials confirmed the tragedy, which happened early Sunday. The fire started at 2:30 AM at the Pulse club in Kocani. At that time, around 500 people had gathered for a concert by DNK, a popular hip-hop duo. Unfortunately, only one band member survived and is now receiving treatment. Meanwhile, authorities reported that 155 people suffered injuries.

Authorities Suspect Corruption

Soon after the incident, Interior Minister Pance Toskovski revealed possible bribery and corruption. He further confirmed that the nightclub had no legal license to operate.

In addition, local reports described the venue as an "improvised nightclub." Previously, it had functioned as a carpet warehouse. Moreover, Mayor Danela Arsovska pointed out that the building had only "one efficient exit." The back door was locked, making it unusable.

Furthermore, inspectors discovered multiple safety violations. The club lacked a proper fire-extinguishing system and had poor lighting.

Pyrotechnics Sparked the Fire

Investigators believe the fire started when pyrotechnic sparks ignited the ceiling. Unfortunately, the ceiling was made of highly flammable material, causing flames to spread rapidly.

In fact, video footage shows the band performing when two flares go off. As a result, sparks hit the ceiling, triggering the fire. Shockingly, some people attempted to put out the flames instead of evacuating.

Panic and Chaos

Since the nightclub had only one entry and exit, panic broke out as people rushed to escape.

For instance, Marija Taseva, 20, described the terrifying moment. "I was caught in a crush as people rushed for the exits," she said. She fell and was trampled but somehow managed to escape.

"I don’t know how, but somehow I got out," she told Reuters. "I’m fine now, but there are many dead."

Tragically, her 25-year-old sister did not survive. "I was saved and she wasn’t," she said.

Many Victims Were Young

Meanwhile, Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Saidov revealed that most victims were 18 to 20 years old. Additionally, officials confirmed that three of the dead and over 20 of the injured were under 18.

"The situation is brutal, chaotic," Saidov said. "Many young lives are lost."

Similarly, Dr. Vladislav Gruev, a burn specialist, treated victims at the University Clinic for Surgical Diseases. He stated, "[They have] second and third-degree burns on the head, neck, and upper torso."

Moreover, hospital staff struggled to identify victims since many had no ID cards. At present, 18 patients remain in critical condition.

Government Declares Mourning Period

In response, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski called it "a difficult and very sad day." He mourned the loss of young lives.

Likewise, President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova expressed her grief. "Your immense pain is mine too," she said. She also urged stricter safety regulations. "No business or activity can function without standards and rules. Let us not allow anyone to endanger innocent lives again."

As a result, authorities transferred the most seriously injured to hospitals in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey.

International Leaders React

Shortly after the tragedy, world leaders offered condolences. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU "stands in solidarity with the people of North Macedonia in this difficult time."

Likewise, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called it "a tragedy of immense magnitude." He also warned that more victims might not survive their injuries.

Finally, the North Macedonian government launched an emergency investigation. Officials are now working to determine the cause and hold those responsible accountable.