Tragedy struck in Kočani, North Macedonia, when a fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in the early hours of March 16, 2025.
The devastating incident claimed the lives of at least 59 people and left more than 155 injured, marking one of the deadliest nightclub fires in the country’s history.
Among the victims was Andrej Lazarov, a 25-year-old professional soccer player from FC Shkupi, a team in the Macedonian First Football League.
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His club confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Facebook statement, revealing that he died from smoke inhalation while attempting to save other nightclub-goers. The statement praised his bravery and selflessness, saying,
“His heroic act will always remain in our memories, as a testament to his noble character and his big heart.”
North Macedonia’s Interior Minister Panche Toshkovskithe confirmed that the fire was caused by pyrotechnics used during a concert at the club, where local pop group ADN was performing.
The sparks ignited a fire that rapidly spread, leading to chaotic scenes as club-goers desperately tried to escape.
The tragedy has shaken the nation, with Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressing deep sorrow in an Instagram post:
“This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia. The government is fully mobilized and will do everything necessary to deal with the consequences and determine the causes of this tragedy.”
International figures, including European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, have also extended their condolences. She wrote on X (formerly Twitter),
“Deeply saddened by the tragic fire in Kočani, which claimed the lives of too many young people. My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all of North Macedonia.”
Authorities are now conducting a full investigation into the disaster, including potential safety violations at the nightclub.
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Meanwhile, grief and shock continue to spread as the nation mourns the loss of dozens of young lives, including Andrej Lazarov, whose final act was one of bravery and self-sacrifice.
