In brief
A nightclub fire in North Macedonia's Kocani town has left dozens feared dead, raising urgent concerns about safety protocols as investigations begin.
The devastating fire erupted early Sunday morning at the Pulse nightclub, located approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Skopje, the capital. Eyewitness accounts and local media reports suggest the death toll may reach as high as 50, while many others are believed to be injured, though these figures remain unconfirmed by official sources.According to reports, the fire broke out around 03:00 local time (02:00 GMT) during a live performance by ADN, a well-known hip-hop duo in the region, with around 1,500 attendees in attendance. Videos circulating on social media depict the nightclub engulfed in flames, sending thick plumes of smoke into the night sky.Preliminary investigations indicate that the blaze could have been sparked by pyrotechnic devices used during the concert. Footage reveals bright sparks originating from the stage and igniting material on the venue's ceiling, eventually leading to the rapid spread of the fire. Emergency services are currently engaged in rescue efforts as the community mourns the potential loss of life and examines the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
