Deadly Nightclub Collapse in Dominican Republic Claims Dozens, Traps Hundreds
A devastating nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, has resulted in at least 44 fatalities and trapped approximately 100 people under the debris. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at the Jet Set nightclub during a crowded musical performance.
Rescue workers are working tirelessly to reach those still trapped. According to Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Center, 146 people have been pulled alive from the rubble. It is estimated that at least 300 people were inside the venue when the roof collapsed.
Families of the missing have gathered at the scene, desperately sharing photos of their loved ones, hoping for any news. Over 150 ambulances are transporting the injured to hospitals, while personnel from 22 public institutions are assisting with the rescue efforts.
The cause of the collapse remains unknown. Aerial footage shows a gaping hole in the middle of the building where the audience was located during the performance.
Among the deceased is Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province, confirmed by Dominican President Luis Abinader. Cruz was related to MLB all-star Nelson Cruz, according to a statement from his family.
The roof caved in around 1 a.m. local time during a performance by merengue artist Rubby Pérez and his orchestra.
Footage from inside the venue captured the moment of the collapse.
Watch: Video from inside the Jet Set Club shows the moment the roof collapsed during a performance. Screams and crashing sounds can be heard as the lights and roof fall.
Pérez's daughter reported that her father survived the collapse. Rescue workers found him singing under the rubble. "He started to sing so they could hear him," she said. Former MLB pitcher and World Series champion Octavio Dotel was also found alive and is receiving treatment at a hospital. The son of Public Works Minister Eduardo Estrella is among the missing.
President Abinader has declared three days of national mourning and visited the site with First Lady Raquel Arbaje to offer condolences to the victims' families.
"We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub," Abinader wrote on X. "All rescue agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families."
Santo Domingo Mayor Carolina Mejía de Garrigó expressed her condolences to the families awaiting news of their loved ones, describing the tragedy as terrible.
The Jet Set nightclub is a well-known venue in the Dominican Republic, with its Monday night events being particularly popular.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.