Following a deadly nightclub fire in North Macedonia that resulted in numerous casualties, survivors and relatives share their heart-wrenching experiences as investigations into the tragedy unfold.**
North Macedonia Grieves as Nightclub Tragedy Claims 59 Lives**
North Macedonia Grieves as Nightclub Tragedy Claims 59 Lives**
A devastating fire at Pulse club in Kocani leaves families mourning, prompting calls for accountability.**
The night at the Pulse club in Kocani, North Macedonia, turned tragically fatal for many on Saturday when a fire erupted, killing at least 59 individuals and injuring 155. Marija Taseva, just 19 years old, recalls how she was enjoying a performance by the popular hip-hop duo DNK when chaos ensued. As flames engulfed the venue, panic rose with attendees pleading for an exit. In the desperate scramble to flee, Ms. Taseva found herself trapped; an escape that left her sister behind. “I lost everything,” she mourned, reflecting on her sister's fate.
The fire, attributed to malfunctioning pyrotechnic devices that ignited the highly flammable ceiling, revealed grave safety oversights. With only one exit available for a crowd of 500 and reports that an additional exit was locked, tragedy quickly unfolded. “Many of the deceased suffered injuries from the stampede,” stated Kristina Serafimovska, head of the Kocani hospital, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Ten individuals, including officials linked to licensing the venue, have been detained as investigators probe the circumstances surrounding the disaster. The club, previously a carpet warehouse, lacked an official permit for operation, raising questions about corruption and negligence.
“The situation is chaotic and the stories heartbreaking,” acknowledged Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Saidov, who noted the predominantly young demographic among victims, with many parents waiting anxiously for news. Strong emotions surged as families expressed their agony; one father lamented, “I am a dead man, I lost everything… the whole of Europe should know.”
In response to the tragedy, North Macedonia's President, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, has demanded accountability for those responsible. As the nation observes seven days of mourning, both governmental and international efforts are underway to treat the injured, with special medical attention being provided in surrounding countries. The somber event not only highlights the need for stringent safety regulations but also serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life.
The fire, attributed to malfunctioning pyrotechnic devices that ignited the highly flammable ceiling, revealed grave safety oversights. With only one exit available for a crowd of 500 and reports that an additional exit was locked, tragedy quickly unfolded. “Many of the deceased suffered injuries from the stampede,” stated Kristina Serafimovska, head of the Kocani hospital, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Ten individuals, including officials linked to licensing the venue, have been detained as investigators probe the circumstances surrounding the disaster. The club, previously a carpet warehouse, lacked an official permit for operation, raising questions about corruption and negligence.
“The situation is chaotic and the stories heartbreaking,” acknowledged Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Saidov, who noted the predominantly young demographic among victims, with many parents waiting anxiously for news. Strong emotions surged as families expressed their agony; one father lamented, “I am a dead man, I lost everything… the whole of Europe should know.”
In response to the tragedy, North Macedonia's President, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, has demanded accountability for those responsible. As the nation observes seven days of mourning, both governmental and international efforts are underway to treat the injured, with special medical attention being provided in surrounding countries. The somber event not only highlights the need for stringent safety regulations but also serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life.
