Jet Set Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic Kills 79, Injures Over 150 – Three Days of National Mourning Declared
Santo Domingo, April 9 In one of the deadliest civilian tragedies in recent years, a catastrophic roof collapse at the popular Jet Set Nightclub in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, has claimed at least 79 lives and left over 155 injured, according to official emergency services.
The incident occurred early Tuesday morning during a live performance by renowned Dominican singer Rubby Pérez, who was also among the deceased. Other notable victims include former Major League Baseball (MLB) players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, and Nelcy Cruz, the Governor of Monte Cristi Province.
Tragedy Strikes During Live Concert
According to initial reports, the tragedy unfolded during a musical concert headlined by Rubby Pérez. As the crowd enjoyed the performance, the roof of the Jet Set Nightclub suddenly collapsed, trapping dozens under the debris. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where they worked tirelessly for hours, digging through rubble with wooden planks and drilling equipment to rescue survivors.
The exact cause of the collapse remains unknown. Major General Juan Manuel Méndez, Director of Emergency Operations, confirmed the death toll in a press conference held late Tuesday night. He also stated that rescue efforts continue, although the chances of finding survivors are diminishing.
A Nation in Mourning
President Luis Abinader has declared three days of national mourning, honoring the lives lost in the disaster. In his statement, he confirmed the passing of Governor Nelcy Cruz, who was a respected public servant and the sister of former MLB star Nelson Cruz. According to First Lady Raquel Arbaje, Cruz had placed an emergency call shortly after the collapse, informing authorities that she was trapped under the rubble. She later succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital.
Dominican Minister of Culture Roberto Ángel Salcedo expressed profound grief, saying, “This tragedy has left a void in our cultural heart.” Global music icons with Dominican or Caribbean roots, including Juan Luis Guerra, Daddy Yankee, and Marc Anthony, took to social media to express their condolences, with Anthony posting, “There are no words to describe this heartbreak.”
Jet Set Club: A Cultural Landmark Now in Ruins
Jet Set Nightclub was widely regarded as one of Santo Domingo’s premier cultural and entertainment hubs, often hosting high-profile musical acts and attracting influential figures from politics, sports, and the arts.
Santo Domingo’s mayor, Carolina Mejía de Garrigó, said on social media, “Our city has awakened to an unspeakable tragedy. My deepest sympathies go out to the families still waiting for news about their loved ones.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an official investigation to determine what led to the sudden structural failure. Engineers and forensic experts are examining the remnants of the building for any signs of construction flaws, maintenance lapses, or other contributing factors.
As rescue operations continue, the country stands united in grief, remembering those lost and praying for those still unaccounted for.
