Tragedy at Dominican nightclub claims dozens of lives
Dozens of people lost their lives and hundreds were injured after the roof of the renowned Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, collapsed early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred during a live performance by merengue icon Rubby Pérez, with at least 300 people present at the time.
Authorities reported that 98 people were confirmed dead, including two former Major League Baseball (MLB) players—Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. Dotel was pulled from the debris alive but tragically passed away en route to the hospital. Blanco’s death was confirmed by the MLB Commissioner and the Dominican Sports Ministry.
Among the victims was also Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province and relative of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. The son of Public Works Minister Eduardo Estrella remains missing.
More than 220 people were injured in the collapse, prompting a massive emergency response involving personnel from over 22 public institutions.
President Luis Abinader declared three days of national mourning and personally visited the site with First Lady Raquel Arbaje. In a statement, he expressed his sorrow and praised the dedication of emergency teams continuing to search for survivors.
Aerial and interior footage showed the devastation, including the moment the ceiling gave way during the concert. Eyewitness videos captured the chaos as lights and debris fell onto the crowd, followed by screams and darkness.
Jet Set, one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic nightclubs, is especially known for its vibrant Monday night shows. The nation now grieves a tragedy that has left a lasting scar on its cultural and sports communities.
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