Nightclub Fire in North Macedonia: 51 Dead, Pyrotechnics Suspected

A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, has claimed the lives of at least 51 people, with over 100 injured during a concert attended by approximately 1,500 people. The blaze occurred early Sunday morning, reportedly caused by pyrotechnic devices used for lighting effects during the performance by the pop duo DNK. Videos shared on social media show the chaos as the fire quickly spread, leading to a stampede as concertgoers attempted to escape. The country's interior minister, Panche Toshkovski, confirmed the casualties and stated that the injured were transported to hospitals in Kocani, Skopje, and Stip. Offers of assistance have been received from neighboring countries, with efforts underway to support the victims and their families. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski and President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova expressed condolences, describing the incident as a national tragedy.