A devastating fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, claimed the lives of at least 59 people and left 155 others injured in the early hours of Sunday.
Among the victims was 25-year-old footballer Andrej Lazarov, who lost his life while trying to rescue others from the blaze.
The fire broke out around 2:30 am, quickly spreading through the crowded venue. As chaos unfolded, Lazarov reportedly rushed to help trapped partygoers, putting himself in danger to save lives. His bravery has been widely recognized, with his football club and local community mourning his loss.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, but early reports suggest that an electrical fault may have triggered the disaster. Emergency teams worked through the night to control the flames and evacuate survivors, while hospitals in the region remain overwhelmed with injured victims.
North Macedonia’s Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and promised a full investigation. The government has declared a period of national mourning, with flags lowered and memorial services planned for those who lost their lives.
Lazarov’s death has left a profound impact on his teammates, friends, and family. His club released a heartfelt statement honoring his selfless actions, calling him a true hero who gave his life to save others. Messages of support have poured in from across the country, with many hailing him as an inspiration.
As the nation grieves, authorities continue to assess the damage and provide support to survivors. The tragedy has sparked renewed discussions on nightclub safety regulations, with calls for stricter enforcement to prevent similar disasters in the future.