A devastating fire at Club Pulse in Kocani has claimed at least 53 lives and left over 100 injured after igniting around 3 a.m. local time.

The flames quickly engulfed the ceiling and roof, causing a panicked stampede as patrons tried to escape. Many victims suffered from severe burns and suffocation.

Interior Minister Pance Toshkovski is at the scene, while Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski is on his way.

Source: AFP