The tragic aftermath of the deadly nightclub fire in Kocani, North Macedonia, continues to unfold as the country’s health minister confirmed on Friday that the death toll has now risen to 60. This comes after a critically injured victim, who had been receiving treatment in Lithuania, succumbed to burn injuries sustained during the March 16 blaze.
Health Minister Arben Taravari announced the grim update, stating, “Unfortunately, this morning I received the bad news that one patient, who was among the four most critically injured, has died.” The patient reportedly had burns covering nearly 40% of their body and ultimately died due to complications arising from an infection and kidney failure.
The fire, which broke out during a live concert at a crowded indoor nightclub in the eastern town of Kocani, was triggered by a pyrotechnics display. The incident predominantly claimed the lives of young revelers and left dozens more injured. Officials estimate that around 650 people, including 31 minors, were inside the venue at the time of the blaze. At least 196 people sustained injuries, with 25 of them being minors.
In the wake of the disaster, the most critically injured were transported to hospitals across Europe with assistance from the European Union.
Authorities are actively investigating the tragedy, focusing on alleged violations of fire safety protocols and the possibility that the nightclub was operating without proper permits. A total of 34 individuals remain in custody, including a former finance minister and seven senior police officers. State Prosecutor Ljupco Kocevski confirmed that those arrested are facing serious charges that could result in prison sentences of up to 20 years, if convicted.
The Kocani nightclub fire is being regarded as one of the worst peacetime tragedies in North Macedonia in recent years, sparking public outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations across the country.
Sources By Agencies
