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The death toll from a devastating nightclub fire in North Macedonia has increased to 63, following the death of musician Vladimir Blazev-Panco, who succumbed to his injuries nearly seven months after the tragedy. The 46-year-old singer, a member of the band DNK, passed away early Tuesday in Skopje, the country’s prosecutor confirmed.
The fire broke out on 16 March during a hip-hop concert in the eastern town of Kocani, sparking chaos and a deadly stampede in the overcrowded nightclub. The blaze left dozens dead and nearly 200 injured, marking one of the deadliest nightclub fires in Europe. Eight members of the performing band were among those who lost their lives.
Investigations later revealed that the fire had been triggered by fireworks ignited inside the venue. Prosecutors alleged that the nightclub failed to meet basic safety requirements, with minimal fire prevention measures in place.
Earlier this month, a court approved indictments against 34 individuals, paving the way for a trial. Those charged include a government minister, two former ministers, the nightclub’s owner, building inspectors and three former mayors of Kocani. A judge is expected to announce a trial date soon.
In addition to the main criminal case, a separate investigation into corruption and organised crime has linked several police officers and public officials to the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Families of the victims, most of whom were between 16 and 26 years old, continue to gather every weekend to hold peaceful vigils demanding justice and accountability for the lives lost.
