The disaster occurred during a concert by the rapper “Tsunami” on the night of December 24th. The “Kartel” nightclub, which floated on a raft at the mouth of the Sava and Danube in Belgrade, partially sank. Many guests were no longer able to cross the pier to the shore. They – young women, some in miniskirts and high heels – had to jump into the freezing river water and swim. Rescuers used boats to bring everyone safely to shore.
Witnesses speak of mass panic: “People jumped off the raft, pushed each other and screamed. Then the walkway between the club and the bank collapsed. There were probably 100 people in the water. Many feared for their lives.” Serbian media reported 30 people who later had to be rescued by emergency services. Apparently there are no missing or injured. The cause of the accident is unclear. According to witnesses, the raft may have tipped over due to a fight between guests and security guards.
Kartel nightclub was considered one of the most exclusive in Belgrade. Without a reservation you had no chance of getting in.