KOCANI, NORTH MACEDONIA – A devastating fire erupted in a nightclub in the town of Kocani early Sunday morning, resulting in 59 deaths and leaving more than 100 people injured, according to Interior Minister Pance Toskovski.

Authorities have arrested four individuals in connection with the incident. Toskovski confirmed that the fire was triggered by “pyrotechnic devices” used during a concert inside the venue.

“Sparks ignited the flames, which rapidly spread throughout the nightclub,” he stated.

A video verified by Reuters captures the moment a band performed on stage, surrounded by two flares emitting white sparks. The footage shows the sparks setting the ceiling ablaze, prompting the musicians to back away before the recording cuts off.

Local TV footage depicted firefighters extinguishing the smoldering entrance of the club, identified as ‘Pulse.’

According to North Macedonia’s MRT public broadcaster, 27 individuals with severe burns were admitted to Skopje City Hospital, while another 23 received treatment at the Clinical Center. Reports indicate that minors were among the injured.

The fire broke out at approximately 3:00 a.m.

Reacting to the tragedy, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed his condolences on Facebook, stating, “This is a difficult and deeply sorrowful day for Macedonia. The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain felt by their families, friends, and loved ones is immeasurable.”