"I had one child and I lost him": North Macedonia families mourn after DNK concert fire kills 59

At least 59 people died and 155 were injured in a devastating fire that broke out at Club Pulse in Kocani, North Macedonia, during a concert by DNK on March 16, 2025.

According to a report in The Associated Press, the deaths were caused by burns, smoke inhalation, while others were trampled. The victims were reportedly aged between 18 and 23.

The tragedy has left many people mourning for their loved ones. People are angry and searching for answers as many lost their children and close relatives. Dragi Stojanov, who lost his only child, told BBC in a report:

"Let me tell you in front of everybody. Film me. I am a dead man, I lost everything… the whole of Europe should know," he said. "After this tragedy, what do I need this life for? I don't need it. I had one child and I lost him."

Marija Taseva, who lost her sister to the fatal blaze, shared with BBC how she managed to escape when she fell to the ground and people started stomping on her.

"My sister died. I was saved and she wasn't," she said.

The police have detained 15 people and more than 20 are suspected, according to a report in BBC. Interior Minister, Panche Toshkovski said there are "grounds for suspicion that there is bribery and corruption" linked to the fire.

The government has declared seven days of national mourning and will hold an emergency session as part of the ongoing investigation.

Here is everything we know about the incident.

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What happened during the DNK concert at Kocani?

The tragedy occurred during a concert by the DNK, a popular hip-hop duo at the Pulse Club in Kocani. During the concert, pyrotechnics used for the group’s performance ignited a highly combustible ceiling, causing a rapid spread of flames and dense smoke, according to The New York Times.

Reportedly, a police officer, who was present to check for drugs or underage guests, died while on duty in the club. He was among the 59 people who were declared dead in the fire.

A report in BBC indicated that the fire started around 02:30 local time.

"Most of the dead suffered injuries from the stampede that occurred in the panic while trying to exit. Seventy of the patients have burns and carbon monoxide poisoning," the head of the Kocani hospital, Kristina Serafimovska told BBC.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski took to X to commemorate the lives lost in the tragedy. He wrote:

“This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia! The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of the families, loved ones and friends is immeasurable.”

North Macedonian Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said that the nightclub had been operating illegally for more than a year with a fake license and no valid permit. He stated that the venue was packed to twice its official capacity of 250 people, and there was only one exit.

One of the main organizers of the event has been arrested for the fatal fire accident, reported ABC News. The investigation is currently underway.