Police have detained 15 people after a devastating fire at a nightclub in North Macedonia killed at least 59 people. The blaze broke out early Sunday at the Pulse club in Kocani. At that time, around 500 people had gathered for a concert by DNK, a popular hip-hop duo.

Meanwhile, officials confirmed that only one band member survived. He is now receiving treatment in a hospital. Additionally, a spokesperson from the public prosecutor’s office told the reporters that 155 people suffered injuries.

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Fire Linked to Corruption and Safety Violations

As investigations continue, Interior Minister Pance Toskovski revealed that authorities suspect bribery and corruption played a role in the incident. Furthermore, he confirmed that the nightclub did not have a legal operating license.

Local media described the venue as an “improvised nightclub” since it was previously a carpet warehouse. Moreover, officials discovered that the building had only one functional exit. Unfortunately, the back door was locked, making it impossible for people to escape.

In addition, Mayor Danela Arsovska stated that inspections found multiple safety violations. For instance, the club lacked a proper fire-extinguishing system and had faulty electrical wiring.

Sparks from Pyrotechnics Ignited the Fire

According to initial reports, sparks from pyrotechnic devices ignited the fire. Toskovski explained that the ceiling, made of highly flammable material, caught fire instantly. As a result, flames spread rapidly.

Meanwhile, footage from the scene showed the band performing when two flares went off. Almost immediately, sparks reached the ceiling, triggering the blaze.

Chaos and Panic Led to More Casualties

Since the nightclub had only one entry and exit point, chaos erupted as people rushed to escape.

For example, Marija Taseva, 20, recalled getting caught in the crowd. She fell to the ground and was trampled before managing to escape.

“I don’t know how, but somehow I managed to get out,” she told Reuters. “I’m fine now, but there are many dead.”

Unfortunately, her 25-year-old sister did not survive. With grief, she said, “I was saved, and she wasn’t.”

At the same time, Red Cross volunteer Mustafa Saidov described the situation as “brutal and chaotic.” He noted that most victims were young people between 18 and 20. Furthermore, officials reported that over 20 injured victims and three fatalities were under 18.

Hospitals Struggle to Treat Burn Victims

Meanwhile, hospitals faced immense challenges treating the injured. Dr. Vladislav Gruev, a reconstructive surgery specialist, revealed that most patients suffered severe burns. Specifically, many arrived with second- and third-degree burns on their head, neck, and upper body.

In addition, Kocani’s hospital director said staff struggled to identify patients because many lacked ID cards. Currently, 18 patients remain in critical condition.

Government Responds with Mourning and Investigations

Reacting to the tragedy, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski called it a “difficult and very sad day” for the country. He expressed deep sorrow for the loss of so many young lives.

As a response, the government declared seven days of national mourning. Additionally, officials launched an emergency session to investigate the disaster.

Similarly, North Macedonia’s President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova shared her grief. Addressing the bereaved families, she said, “Your immense pain is mine too.”

Furthermore, she emphasized the need for stricter safety regulations. “No business or activity can function without standards and rules,” she wrote. “We must not allow this to happen again.”

Authorities are now transferring critically injured patients to specialist clinics in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey.

International Leaders Express Condolences

Meanwhile, European leaders shared their sympathies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured that the EU stands with North Macedonia during this difficult time.

Likewise, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called it a “tragedy of immense magnitude.” He warned that many critically injured victims might not survive.