In a horrifying tragedy that rocked the Dominican capital early Tuesday morning, the roof of the iconic Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a merengue concert, killing at least 27 people and injuring 160 others, according to emergency officials.
Authorities are still searching for survivors trapped beneath the rubble, with rescue teams combing through the debris well into the day. Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations, vowed that efforts would not stop until every last person is accounted for.
Among the deceased is Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province. The injured include former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel, Dominican legislator Bray Vargas, and famed merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing at the time of the collapse.
“It happened so quickly,” said Pérez’s manager, Enrique Paulino, who described how he narrowly escaped with his life. “I thought it was an earthquake.” Tragically, Pérez’s saxophonist did not survive.
Jet Set, a beloved staple in Santo Domingo nightlife, is known for hosting Monday night concerts featuring top-tier national and international talent. The venue was packed with well-known figures in politics, sports, and music when the collapse occurred just before 1 a.m.
President Luis Abinader called the disaster a “deeply regrettable tragedy” and has been closely monitoring rescue efforts. He visited the site, embracing families and offering comfort to those waiting desperately for news about loved ones.
“We have been following the incident minute by minute,” Abinader wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “All rescue agencies are working tirelessly.”
Meanwhile, chaos surrounded the club as concerned family members searched for missing relatives. Manuel Olivo Ortiz, whose son attended the concert, pleaded for hope: “We’re holding on only to God.”
Outside the rubble, a police official urged the gathered crowd to clear the area so ambulances could move freely. “You have to cooperate with authorities,” he said through a megaphone. “We are removing people.”
What caused the collapse remains unknown. Investigators have yet to determine whether the tragedy was due to structural failure, negligence, or something else entirely.
This devastating event raises serious questions about safety regulations and government oversight in public venues, especially those frequented by high-profile individuals. As the nation mourns, many are demanding answers — and accountability.
