Tragedy struck in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, when the roof of the popular Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a live concert, claiming the lives of more than 100 people and injuring hundreds more. Search and rescue efforts remain ongoing as authorities continue to comb through the rubble.
The incident occurred in the early hours of April 8, shortly after renowned singer Rubby Pérez took the stage. Eyewitness videos show parts of the roof falling as concertgoers began to flee, before the entire structure gave way, burying many inside.
According to reports from PA, the death toll has risen to at least 124, with over 255 people injured. As of now, only 54 victims have been formally identified.
Victims Identified
Among those confirmed dead are notable names from the world of baseball. Satosky Terrero, spokesperson for the Dominican Professional Baseball League, confirmed the deaths of former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel and Dominican player Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera.
Another high-profile victim was Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province and sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. She reportedly contacted President Luis Abinader from under the rubble before passing away in the hospital.
Singer Rubby Pérez, who had just begun his performance at the time of the collapse, was also found deceased, according to Juan Manuel Méndez, Director of the Center for Emergency Operations. Saxophonist Luis Solis, who was performing alongside Pérez, is among the deceased, as are several Venezuelan bartenders and a Dominican army captain.
Grupo Popular, a leading financial services company, confirmed the deaths of three employees, including the president of AFP Popular Bank and his spouse. Additional victims include a cardiologist, a government architect, a retired police officer, and the brother of the Ministry of Youth’s vice minister.
Official Reactions
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio offered condolences via Twitter:
“Jeanette and I are united in prayer as the people of the Dominican Republic grieve the recent tragedy at Jet Set nightclub… Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected. The U.S. stands ready to support our Dominican allies.”
Emergency Operations Director Juan Manuel Méndez reaffirmed the nation’s commitment: “We’re going to search tirelessly for people.”
Former Public Health Minister and current Senator Daniel Rivera remarked, “There’s a lot of pain. We need to have a lot of patience.”
President Luis Abinader declared three days of national mourning and issued a public statement:
“We deeply regret the tragedy at the Jet Set nightclub. Rescue agencies are working tirelessly. Our prayers are with the affected families.”
Family and Friends Speak Out
Dotel’s agent, Dan Horwits, honored the late pitcher, saying:
“His energy, positivity, and zest for life were infectious. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Kimberly Jones is still awaiting news of her niece and godson, 45-year-old artist Osiris Blanc, who were regulars at the club. “It was their favorite place. They went there almost every Monday,” she said.
Wilson Casado shared with NBC News that he’s anxiously waiting for updates on his nephew, his nephew’s wife, and his cousin. “We just hope they’re at a hospital… to be able to see them again.”
Boston Red Sox legend Pedro Martinez revealed on Instagram that some of his relatives were at the club during the collapse. “We’re all sad. We’re all affected by the tragedy,” he wrote.
Club Statement
Jet Set nightclub issued a heartfelt statement:
“There are no words to express the pain this event has caused. We stand in solidarity with the victims’ families and share your anguish. You can count on the Jet Set family during this devastating time.”
Investigation Underway
While rescue crews remain focused on finding survivors, an official investigation into the cause of the collapse is expected to follow. Authorities have yet to confirm what led to the catastrophic structural failure.
