Andrej Lazarov was a player of FC Skopje
FC Skopje star Andrej Lazarov tragically died while trying to save others during a fire outbreak at a nightclub.
The fire, which started at dawn on Sunday, claimed the lives of at least 59 people and left more than 155 injured after breaking out at the Pulse Club in Kocani, North Macedonia.
Reports indicate that a local hip-hop group was performing for the 1,500 partygoers at the time. Lazarov, who joined the club in September, is believed to have suffered from smoke poisoning while desperately attempting to help save others.
In a harrowing statement, Macedonian second-tier side FC Skopje said: “Although we previously had information from his family that he was fine, with deep pain and great sadness, we announce that our footballer, 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. He was poisoned by smoke during his efforts to save lives, showing courage and humanity until the very end.
“His heroic act will always remain in our memory, as a testament to his noble character and big heart. This is a great loss for our club, for our teammates, and for the entire football community.
“Words are insufficient to describe the pain we feel in these moments, in this tragedy—the greatest in history to have befallen our club. FC Skopje expresses its most sincere condolences to his family, relatives, and the entire extended family of our club.
“Andrej was only part of Skopje for six months, but his name will always remain indelible as part of our team. The memory of him will always remain unforgettable in our hearts,” the statement concluded.
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