The collapse of nightclubs in the Dominican Republic leaves nearly 200 dead

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Rescuers searched the wreckage of Santo Domingo’s Jet Set Nightclub after the roof collapsed during a live performance filled with live performances, killing nearly 200 people and leaving the country in mourning. Credit: x -𝓝𝓲𝓴𝓴𝓲@pfkhealth

The music and celebration night turned into a national tragedy of the Dominican Republic after the roof of the Jet Set Nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed, killing at least 184 people and wounding many more.

The incident that occurred shortly after 1am on Tuesday is now described as one of the worst disasters the country faces in recent memory.

The iconic nightclub was packed with over 300 people who gathered to enjoy the performance of the Merengue Star Rubby Pérez. In the middle of the show, the ceiling collapsed, causing confusion among participants. Perez himself was one of the victims. His body was retrieved from Kawarabu the next morning.

Former MLB star, public figure among victims of nightclub collapse

Among the deceased are former major league baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. Dotel was pulled from the wreckage alive, but later died of injuries on his way to the hospital.

Other notable victims include Nelcy Cruz, governor of Monte Christie and relative of MLB player Nelson Cruz, and son of Eduardo Estrella, still missing the Minister of Public Works.

Jet Set Nightclub Rescue Operations will end after the final body has recovered

The rescue efforts continued until Wednesday, with crew members pulling 20 more bodies from the debris before aborting the search. Many families were waiting outside the site and nearby hospital.

Survivors shared a heartbreaking account. Zulinka Pérez, daughter of Rubby Pérez, praised her survival to her husband, who protected her from falling debris. Another survivor, Jennile Mena, said she was celebrating her birthday when the roof caves down.

Officials reported that at least one US citizen and several US residents were among the deaths. Dominican baseball hall of fame Pedro Martinez said some of his family remained unachievable.

Dominican Republic begins investigations when the state mourns

President Louis Abinader declared three days of national mourning and visited the site with First Lady Raquel Albae. He praised the emergency response team, including support from Israel and Puerto Rico, for assisting with the rescue.

The cause of the collapse is still unknown, but authorities have begun an investigation. Aerial footage from the site shows holes in the gaps where the roof once stood.

The Jetset Nightclub was a cultural landmark known for hosting top talent in Dominicans and being a popular destination on Monday nights. Now it stands as a place of tragedy that has shaken up the nation.