Tragic Roof Collapse at Iconic Dominican Nightclub Claims Over 60 Lives
In a devastating incident early Tuesday, the roof of Santo Domingo’s renowned Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a lively merengue concert, resulting in more than sixty fatalities and injuring approximately 160 others, as confirmed by authorities.
Juan Manuel Méndez, the director of the Center of Emergency Operations, reported ongoing rescue efforts at the one-story nightclub, emphasizing the commitment of emergency crews to locate any potential survivors trapped under the rubble. “We presume that many of them are still alive,” he stated, underscoring the determination of the teams working tirelessly to ensure no one is left behind.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Nearly twelve hours post-collapse, rescue workers continued their search for survivors amid the debris. Firefighters utilized heavy equipment to remove concrete blocks and employed wooden planks as makeshift tools to lift heavy materials, while the sound of drills echoed in the background. Despite the grim circumstances, hope remained as they focused on three promising areas within the nightclub.
Victims and Community Impact
As the death toll rose to 66 by Tuesday afternoon, among the casualties were notable figures, including Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province and sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. She had communicated with President Luis Abinader moments before the collapse, indicating she was trapped. Tragically, it was later confirmed that she passed away in the hospital.
The Professional Baseball League of the Dominican Republic announced the death of Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher, who was also trapped under the wreckage along with Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, another Dominican baseball player.
Reports confirmed that national lawmaker Bray Vargas was among the injured. Merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing during the concert, was initially thought to have been rescued, but Méndez clarified that rescue efforts for him were still underway.
Eyewitness Accounts
Enrique Paulino, Pérez’s manager, recounted the harrowing moment, stating that the concert commenced just before midnight, with the roof collapsing almost an hour into the performance. “It happened so quickly. I managed to throw myself into a corner,” he recalled, initially mistaking the event for an earthquake.
Investigation and Club Response
The cause of the roof collapse remains unclear, and there are questions regarding the last safety inspection of the Jet Set building. The club’s owner, Antonio Espaillat, expressed his heartbreak through a statement released to the public, affirming full cooperation with ongoing investigations.
Amid the tragedy, hundreds of individuals have gathered to support those affected, with over 120 people lining up to donate blood. Prosecutor Rosalba Ramos highlighted the necessity of focusing efforts on finding survivors while assisting grieving families.
Manuel Olivo Ortiz awaits news of his son, hoping for a miracle as families congregate outside the iconic venue, known for hosting traditional Monday night parties featuring celebrated national and international artists. “We’re holding on only to God,” he expressed, embodying the collective hope of many.
Presidential Response and Community Vigil
President Abinader, who has been actively monitoring the situation, visited the site, offering condolences and assurances to families desperately seeking answers. He stated on X, “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub.”
Authorities set up a makeshift morgue while efforts to retrieve individuals continued. A police official urged the gathered crowd to provide space for ambulances and cooperate with rescue operations, highlighting the community’s reliance on faith and hope as the ordeal unfolds.
As the nation mourns, gatherings at hospitals and forensic facilities allow families to identify loved ones and find solace amid the chaos.
For continuous updates, please visit reputable news sources tracking the situation.