Nightclub Roof collapse in Dominican Republic Kills Dozens, Injures Scores
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) – At least 98 people are dead and more than 160 injured after a nightclub roof collapsed in Santo domingo during a merengue concert. Rescue crews continue too search the rubble of the Jet Set nightclub for potential survivors.
Desperate Search for Survivors Underway
Juan Manuel Mendez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations, stated that rescue efforts are ongoing. “We continue clearing debris and searching for people. We’re going to search tirelessly,” he said late Tuesday. Nearly 12 hours after the collapse, rescue workers are prioritizing three key areas within the club, reporting they are “hearing some sounds.” Heavy equipment is being used to remove debris, with the sounds of drills piercing the air.
Notable Figures among the Dead
The collapse has claimed the lives of several prominent figures, including Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province and sister of MLB star Nelson Cruz. First Lady Raquel Abraje told reporters that Cruz had called President Luis Abinader shortly after midnight to report being trapped. She later died at a hospital.
Former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel, 51, also perished in the tragedy. Officials confirmed that former washington Nationals player Tony blanco, father of Pittsburgh Pirates minor league player Tony Blanco Jr., was among those killed. Dominican baseball player Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera also died in the collapse.
Singer’s Fate Uncertain
National politician Bray Vargas is among the injured. The fate of merengue singer Rubby Perez, who was performing when the roof caved in, remains unclear. Initial reports of his rescue were later contradicted, with officials stating the search for him continues.
Witness Accounts Detail Chaos
Enrique Paulino, manager for Rubby Perez, recounted the horrifying scene. Speaking to reporters with blood-spattered clothing, Paulino said the concert began shortly before midnight, with the roof collapsing almost an hour later, killing the group’s saxophonist. “It happened so quickly. I managed to throw myself into a corner,” he stated, initially believing it was an earthquake.
Inquiry into Cause Underway
The cause of the roof collapse is currently under investigation.It is indeed not immediately clear when the Jet Set building was last inspected. The club issued a statement expressing condolences and stating that owner Antonio Espaillat, who was out of the country at the time, has returned to cooperate with the authorities. “There are no words to express the pain this event has caused. What happened has been devastating for everyone,” the statement read.
Deadly Nightclub roof Collapse in Dominican Republic Claims at Least 44 Lives
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — A devastating roof collapse at a nightclub in the Dominican Republic’s capital has resulted in the deaths of at least 44 people. The incident occurred nearly an hour after a merengue concert concluded at the iconic venue [[1](https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-04-08/what-is-known-about-the-roof-collapse-at-a-club-in-the-dominican-republic-that-killed-at-least-44)].
Search and Rescue efforts Continue After Nightclub Tragedy
In the aftermath of the collapse,authorities are prioritizing the search for survivors. Prosecutor Rosalba Ramos told CDN, “Everyone wants to no what happened,” but the immediate focus remains on rescue efforts.
Community Responds with Support Amidst heartbreak
A makeshift morgue has been established near the nightclub. Over 120 people have donated blood at various centers to assist the injured.
Families Await News of Loved Ones
Manuel Olivo ortiz, whose son attended the concert, is among those anxiously waiting for news. The club is known for its Monday parties featuring national and international artists. “We’re holding on only to God,” Ortiz said.
President Abinader Responds To The Tragedy
President Abinader expressed his sorrow on X, stating that all rescue agencies are “working tirelessly.” He added, “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet set nightclub. We have been following the incident minute by minute since it occurred.”
President Visits Scene, Offers Support
President Abinader visited the site of the collapse, offering comfort to those searching for loved ones. “We have faith in God that we will rescue even more people alive,” he told reporters.
Search for Survivors Hampered by Crowds
An official used a megaphone to appeal to the crowd gathered outside the club to allow ambulances access.
Hospitals Work to Identify Survivors
At one hospital, an official read aloud the names of survivors, while people desperately called out the names of their missing family members.
Victim Identification Underway
The National Institute of Forensic Pathology is sharing images of the victims to help families identify their loved ones.
What actions are rescue crews currently taking in response to the nightclub collapse?
Nightclub roof Collapse in Dominican Republic: Q&A
The tragic collapse of a nightclub roof in the Dominican Republic has left dozens dead and many more injured. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and what we know.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened?
A roof collapsed at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo during a merengue concert [[1](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/13-dead-90-hospitalized-roof-dominican-republic-club-collapses-rcna200158)]. The incident resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
How many people died?
Reports indicate at least 98 deaths,with over 160 people injured [[1](https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-04-08/what-is-known-about-the-roof-collapse-at-a-club-in-the-dominican-republic-that-killed-at-least-44)].
Were any notable figures among the victims?
Yes, several prominent figures died in the collapse, including Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province, Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher, and Tony Blanco, a former Washington Nationals player. Additionally, Dominican baseball player Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera also died in the collapse.
What is the status of the merengue singer Rubby Perez?
The fate of Rubby Perez, who was performing at the time of the collapse, remains uncertain. Initial reports of his rescue were contradicted, and the search for him continues.
What is being done to help?
Rescue crews continue to search the rubble for survivors. Hospitals are working to identify survivors, and the National Institute of Forensic Pathology is sharing images of victims to help families. Over 120 people have donated blood to assist the injured.
What caused the collapse?
The cause of the collapse is under examination. The Jet Set building’s inspection history is unknown at this time.
How can I help?
Consider donating to reputable aid organizations assisting with rescue and recovery efforts. The donation of blood is another option to help those affected by this tragedy.
The tragedy at the Jet Set nightclub is a stark reminder of the importance of safety and the devastating impact of structural failures.Let us keep the victims and their families in our thoughts.
