25-year-old footballer dies while saving others in nightclub fire

By Hoang An March 18, 2025 | 03:35 am PT

Midfielder Andrej Lazarov lost his life due to smoke inhalation while trying to rescue victims from a devastating fire that killed at least 59 people and injured more than 155 in North Macedonia.

The fire broke out in the early hours of March 16 (Central European Time) at Pulse nightclub in Kocani, where over 1,000 attendees had gathered for a hip-hop concert by DNK.

Lazarov, who played as a central midfielder for Shkupi, was among those present when the fire spread rapidly. In a statement, FC Shkupi confirmed his sacrifice, saying he suffered fatal smoke inhalation while helping others escape, Daily Mail reported.

"With deep sorrow, we announce that our footballer Andrej Lazarov was among the victims of the tragic fire in Kočani. As the heroic person he was, Lazarov lost his life while trying to help others escape the flames," the club stated. "His bravery and humanity in those final moments will always be remembered."

Midfielder Andrej Lazarov. Photo by Instagram/@lazarovandrej

According to Minister of Internal Affairs Pance Toskovski, the fire is believed to have started when fireworks were set off from the stage, igniting the flammable ceiling materials. Footage circulating on social media captured the moment the fireworks hit the ceiling, triggering a deadly inferno.

Some concertgoers attempted to extinguish the flames, while others were caught in panic. The chaos led to some victims being trampled as they tried to flee. Authorities reported that most of the deceased were between 14 and 25 years old.

Born on Sept. 8, 1999, Andrej Lazarov joined Shkupi in September 2024 and quickly earned a reputation as a dedicated and humble player. His teammates described him as enthusiastic, selfless and always willing to help others.

Before signing with Shkupi, he played for several clubs across North Macedonia, progressing from the youth level to the first team football.

Lazarov's selflessness has been widely praised on social media, with many calling him a hero.

"It takes a lot of courage to risk your life to help others in such a situation," one user wrote on Reddit. "Rest in peace, my champion. You have conquered the hearts of millions."