Andrej Lazarov, a 25-year-old professional footballer from North Macedonia, lost his life on March 16, 2025, due to smoke inhalation during a devastating nightclub fire in Kočani.
His premature death leaves behind his grieving parents, and his acts of courage during the fire will be remembered as a heroic endeavor to save other people.
The talented midfielder Andrej Lazrov, who played for FC Shkupi in the Macedonian First Football League, has been hailed as a hero for his heroic efforts to save others trapped in the blaze.
The fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, a small city in eastern North Macedonia.
What began as a night of celebration turned into a catastrophic disaster, claiming the lives of at least 59 people and injuring more than 155 others.
The fire reportedly started around 3:00 a.m. local time due to sparks from the misuse of pyrotechnics used during the performance of the local pop group ADN.
Eventually, it caused flames to spread rapidly through the venue and produce thick, toxic smoke that overwhelmed those inside.
Amid the chaos, Andrej Lazarov showed his bravery. Witnesses and statements from his club suggest that the young athlete risked his own life to help fellow partygoers escape the inferno.
Tragically, his heroic actions came at the ultimate cost. Overcome by smoke inhalation, Lazarov succumbed to the deadly fumes.
Andrej Lazarov Had Joined FC Shkupi Just Six Months Ago!
Born on September 8, 1999, in Kočani, Lazarov was a central midfielder known for his dedication and skill on the pitch.
Standing at 1.82 meters, he had carved out a promising career in Macedonian football, with stints at clubs like Rabotnicki and Tikvesh before joining FC Shkupi in September 2024.
He also spent a season in the Croatian top division, showcasing his talent beyond North Macedonia’s borders.
FC Shkupi, his final club, mourned his loss in an emotional statement posted on social media:
With great pain and 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.
During his courageous act, he was overcome by smoke. His bravery and humanity in those final moments will always be remembered.
North Macedonia’s Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski also expressed his grief, saying: “difficult and very sad day for Macedonia.”
He assured the public that the government is fully mobilized to address the consequences and investigate the causes of the fire.
