Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Sunday, has been described as one of the deadliest nightclub fires in the country’s history. According to BBC News, the fire erupted around 2:30 a.m. during a live performance by DNK, a popular hip-hop duo in the country. Initial reports states, sparks from pyrotechnic devices used on stage ignited the ceiling, which was made of highly flammable material that is believed to have contributed to the high casualty count. Despite the venue reportedly hosting as many as 1,500 attendees, around 500 people were trapped inside, as the nightclub had only one accessible exit. The other door, located at the back, was locked, making it nearly impossible for many to escape. It is equally reported that most of the victims died not only from burns but also from the chaotic stampede that ensued.
The North Macedonian government has declared seven days of national mourning and is holding an emergency session to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Authorities are reported to have detained 15 individuals in connection to the fire, including the nightclub’s owner and former government officials. Interior Minister Pance Toskovski stated that there are grounds for suspicion that bribery and corruption may have played a role in the incident.
Kristina Serafimovska, the head of Kocani Hospital where most of the victims wer transferred to, confirmed that the most critically injured victims were transported to specialist clinics in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey for advanced treatment.
This horrible event has left the nation in shock, with families of the victims demanding justice for their loved ones. As investigations continue, North Macedonians mourn the lives lost in a disaster that many believe could have been prevented.
