The roof of a nightclub in the Dominican Republic collapsed, leaving over 100 people dead, with the search for survivors still ongoing.
On the morning of April 8, the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in southern Santo Domingo caved in.
The collapse occurred about an hour after the concert began, with singer Rubby Pérez headlining the event.
Videos have surfaced online showing parts of the roof falling, with concert-goers initially trying to move away. Moments later, the entire structure collapsed.
As of now, at least 124 people have been confirmed dead, and more than 255 are reported injured, according to PA.
Some of the victims have been identified by officials, family members, and local media.
Identifying the Victims
Satosky Terrero, spokesman for the country’s Professional Baseball League, confirmed that two of the victims were Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher Octavio Dotel and Dominican player Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera.
Nelsy Cruz, governor of the north-western province of Montecristi and sister of seven-time MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz, reportedly called President Luis Abinader from beneath the rubble to alert him to the disaster but tragically passed away later in the hospital.
Pérez, who was performing at the club when the roof collapsed, was found dead, as confirmed by Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center for Emergency Operations.
Luis Solis, a saxophonist performing onstage, also died in the collapse, along with several Venezuelan bartenders and an army captain.
Financial services company Grupo Popular confirmed that three of its employees perished, including the president of AFP Popular Bank and his wife.
Local media has reported that among the victims of the roof collapse are a cardiologist, a government architect, a retired police officer, and the brother of the vice minister of the Ministry of Youth.
So far, only 54 people have been identified, with many others still unnamed.
Rescue efforts are ongoing
What Officials Have Said
Senator Marco Rubio shared a post on Twitter earlier today (April 9), stating: “Jeanette and I are united in prayer as the people of the Dominican Republic mourn the tragic events at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo. This tragedy has also led to the unfortunate death of at least one U.S. citizen and U.S. Legal Permanent Residents, while rescue efforts continue.”
“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this devastating tragedy. The U.S. stands ready to support our Dominican allies during this difficult time,” Rubio added.
Emergency operations director Juan Manuel Méndez assured, “We will search tirelessly for survivors.”
Senator Daniel Rivera, the country’s former public health minister, expressed, “There is so much pain. We need to have a lot of patience.”
Dominican President Luis Abinader has declared three days of national mourning.
In a statement on Twitter, he expressed: “We deeply regret the tragedy at the Jet Set nightclub. All rescue agencies have provided the necessary support and are working tirelessly in the efforts. Our prayers are with the families affected.”
The entire roof collapsed at the nightclub
What Loved Ones Have Said
In a statement shared yesterday, MLB pitcher Dotel’s agent, Dan Horwits, said: “His energy, positivity, and zest for life were infectious to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. We send our thoughts and prayers to his entire family and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Kimberly Jones is still waiting for news of her niece, godson, 45-year-old artist Osiris Blanc, and his friends, who are reportedly still missing.
She told PA: “It was their favorite place; they went there almost every Monday.”
Wilson Casado spoke with NBC News, expressing concern for his nephew, his nephew’s wife, and his cousin, all of whom are also missing.
He said: “We don’t know anything yet. We have no information on where they might be. We just hope they’re at a hospital, so we can see them again.”
Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez shared on Instagram that some of his family members were in the club when the roof collapsed, and he is trying to “stay strong” while awaiting updates.
He added: “We’re all sad. We’re all affected by this tragedy.”
People have been praying outside the club
What the Club Said
Jet Set nightclub released a statement, which said: [Translated] “There are no words to express the pain this event has caused.
“What happened has been devastating for everyone. Please know that we stand with you and share in your grief.
“As the Jet Set family, we are here for you. To the mothers, fathers, siblings, children, and loved ones of those affected: you can count on us.”
An investigation is expected to take place
Investigation
In the 24 hours following the roof collapse, rescue crews have been focused on searching for survivors amid the wreckage. However, a thorough investigation into the cause of the tragedy is expected to take place.
