A soccer star for Macedonian Football Club, FC Shkupi, has tragically died while trying to save partygoers from a raging nightclub fire.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Per a report by the Associated Press, A large fire broke out in a nightclub in Macedonia on Sunday night. A local group, ADN, reportedly performed at the venue, Club Pulse, when pyrotechnics on stage triggered the blaze. Video evidence allegedly shows sparks hitting the ceiling inside the building while young people desperately tried to escape the smoke.
The outlet explains that the venue was heavily overcrowded. The official capacity of the building is 250. Reports suggest at least double that amount were inside. At least 59 people died in the nightclub fire, with over 150 injured. Among those who lost their lives was Andrej Lazarov, a professional soccer player for FC Shkupi. He reportedly died of smoke inhalation while trying to rescue people.
The football club shared news of their player's passing on
Facebook. Per a translated statement, the club explains, "With deep pain and great sadness, we announce that our football player, Andrej Lazarov, has been confirmed among the victims of the tragic fire that occurred overnight in Kocani. As a heroic soul, Lazarov lost his life trying to help others escape from the burning environment."FC Shkupi Describe The Soccer Star's Actions As 'Heroic'
The statement says that the smoke poisoned Lazarov during his efforts to save lives. He had only been with FC Shkupi for six months, but the club says, "His heroic act will always remain in our memory, as a testament to his noble character and big heart."
According to a report by People, the nightclub fire is one of the worst tragedies to hit the country in recent years. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed the incident on Instagram, saying, "This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia." He also explained that the government is prepared to do everything necessary to deal with the disaster and determine its cause.
Per the Associated Press, authorities detained 15 people for questioning after an inspection revealed that the venue may have operated without a proper license.
