Tragedy in Santo Domingo: Nightclub Roof Collapse Claims Over 230 Lives

In a heartbreaking incident earlier this month, the roof of Jet Set, a popular nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, collapsed during a live performance, resulting in one of the deadliest disasters in the country's recent history. The collapse occurred on the night of April 8, 2025, as renowned merengue singer Rubby Pérez performed for a packed crowd of over 500 people.

Authorities have confirmed that at least 232 people lost their lives, with more than 220 others injured. Among the deceased were several notable figures, including former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, as well as Nelsy Milagros Cruz Martínez, sister of MLB star Nelson Cruz and the governor of Montecristi province.

Eyewitnesses described a sudden and terrifying scene as the ceiling gave way without warning. Rescue crews worked tirelessly for over 48 hours, managing to pull nearly 190 survivors from the rubble.

Jet Set’s owner, Antonio Espaillat, publicly expressed devastation over the tragedy. Speaking from Las Vegas, where he was at the time of the incident, Espaillat revealed that the building had a history of roof leakage issues, often attributed to the club’s air conditioning system. Repairs had been made over the years, but it remains unclear whether they were sufficient or up to code.

The Dominican government has launched a full investigation into the cause of the collapse, assembling a commission that includes local engineers and international structural experts. Early reports suggest that inadequate structural support and persistent water damage may have played a role.

As the nation mourns, the incident has sparked urgent conversations about building safety standards and the accountability of venue owners. For the families affected and the communities mourning, answers cannot come soon enough.

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