A fire at an illegal nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, killed at least 59 people, aged 18 to 23, and injured 155 others.

The blaze, sparked by pyrotechnics, erupted in a venue operating without a permit and packed beyond capacity.

Authorities launched a bribery and corruption investigation, arresting several officials, including a former state secretary and a senior economy ministry official.

Some suspects reportedly died in the fire.

Many victims perished due to smoke inhalation, burns, and a stampede, ABC News has reported.

North Macedonia is in mourning, with global leaders expressing condolences.

Written by B.C. Begley