Tragedy Strikes as Footballer Loses Life Rescuing Others in Nightclub Blaze

 

In a heartbreaking turn of events, 25-year-old footballer Andrej Lazarov lost his life while attempting to save partygoers from a raging fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, Daily Mail reports.

The devastating blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Sunday, claimed at least 59 lives and left more than 155 injured. Lazarov, a player for FC Shkupi, was caught in the chaos while trying to help others escape.

“With deep sorrow, we announce that our footballer Andrej Lazarov was among the victims of the tragic fire in Kočani,” Shkupi said in a statement. “He lost his life while trying to save others. His courage and selflessness will never be forgotten.”

A former Macedonian youth international, Lazarov had previously played in Croatia before returning home to join Shkupi in September.

Authorities believe the fire was triggered by indoor fireworks, which ignited the nightclub’s flammable ceiling. Panic quickly set in, with witnesses describing a stampede as people scrambled to escape.

Emergency services, including helicopters, rushed the injured to hospitals in Skopje and nearby towns. Many victims were between the ages of 14 and 25, according to officials.

Lazarov’s heroism in his final moments has left a lasting impact, with tributes pouring in from the football community and beyond.