The roof collapsed devastatingly at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. At least 98 people died, and more than 160 were injured. The disaster happened during a packed merengue concert. It occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The event shocked the nation and drew international attention.
What Happened?
The roof of the iconic nightclub gave way nearly an hour after the concert began, trapping hundreds under debris. The venue was hosting a performance by Rubby Pérez, a legendary merengue singer. The crowd included politicians, athletes, and local celebrities. Witnesses described chaos as the ceiling collapsed, with some initially mistaking the disaster for an earthquake.
Victims and Survivors
Among the victims were high-profile figures:
- Nelsy Cruz was the governor of Montecristi province. She was the sister of MLB star Nelson Cruz. She called President Luis Abinader moments before her death to report being trapped.
- Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher who played for 13 teams, including the Houston Astros and New York Mets. He was rescued alive but died en route to the hospital.
- Tony Blanco, another former MLB player who spent time with the Washington Nationals.
Confusion surrounded the fate of Rubby Pérez. While initial reports claimed he was rescued, emergency officials later clarified he remained missing. His manager, Enrique Paulino, survived and described the collapse as sudden and catastrophic, noting the band’s saxophonist was killed instantly.
Community and National Response
President Abinader declared three days of national mourning, ordering flags flown at half-staff. He visited the site. He hugged grieving families. He vowed to continue rescue efforts “until not a single person remains under the rubble”. Meanwhile, crowds gathered outside hospitals and a forensic center to identify loved ones. Over 120 people lined up to donate blood, while others sang hymns and prayed near the wreckage.
Unanswered Questions
The cause of the collapse remains unclear. The nightclub opened in 1973. It hosted weekly merengue events. It underwent renovations in 2010 and 2015. It was struck by lightning in 2023. Officials have not confirmed whether the building was recently inspected, and investigations are ongoing. The club’s owner, Antonio Espaillat, expressed grief in a statement but provided no further details.
This story is ongoing. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
