Nelsy Cruz, the sister of former Major League Baseball star Nelson Cruz, tragically lost her life in a nightclub ceiling collapse in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, early Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The collapse occurred at the Jet Set nightclub during a merengue concert, resulting in at least 44 fatalities and over 150 injuries.
The incident unfolded around midnight while merengue singer Rubby Perez was performing. Eyewitnesses reported that the roof caved in about an hour into the concert, sending patrons scrambling for safety. Cruz, who served as the governor of the Montecristi province, was among the prominent figures attending the event, which was frequented by politicians and athletes alike.
According to Juan Manuel Méndez, the Dominican Republic's director of emergency management operations, rescue teams worked tirelessly through the night, searching for survivors in the rubble. "We are still working, searching for people in the rubble. We presume that many of them are still alive, that’s why the authorities here with their teams will not stop until we find the last person in that rubble," he stated during a press conference.
As the tragic news broke, Nelson Cruz shared a heartfelt message on social media, expressing his deep sorrow over the loss of his sister. "With profound pain, the Cruz Martínez family informs the passing of our beloved sister, mother, daughter, aunt, and friend: Nelsy M. Cruz Martínez, who in her life moved with dedication, commitment, and love for her people and community," he wrote.
Dominican Minister of Culture Roberto Ángel Salcedo also confirmed Nelsy’s death, expressing his condolences in a post on X. "I deeply regret the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province, which occurred in the tragic event at the Jet Set nightclub. Her death is an irreparable loss for her community and for the entire country. Nelsy was a committed public servant, a woman of steadfast leadership, and an unwavering ally in initiatives aimed at strengthening our identity and development."
The nightclub, known for hosting high-profile events, has not yet disclosed the cause of the roof collapse. The club’s owner stated they are cooperating with authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly. "The loss of human life leaves us in a state of deep pain and dismay," the statement read.
As of now, reports indicate that at least 60 individuals have died, and the number of injured has climbed to over 160. Among the deceased is former MLB relief pitcher Octavio Dotel, who also attended the concert. Initially reported as rescued, Dotel was later declared dead upon arrival at the Armed Forces Central Hospital.
Dotel, who had a successful 15-year career in Major League Baseball, was remembered by the league in a statement that expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. "Major League Baseball is deeply saddened by the passings of Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, Nelsy Cruz, and all the victims of last night’s tragedy in Santo Domingo. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all those who have been affected and to our colleague Nelson and his entire family. The connection between baseball and the Dominican Republic runs deep, and we are thinking of all the Dominican players and fans across the game today."
In the wake of this disaster, Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader declared three national days of mourning, which will conclude on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The Cruz family announced that Nelsy’s remains would be displayed at the Provincial Government of Montecristi later that day, followed by a funeral service at the family residence.
As the community grapples with the loss of Nelsy Cruz, who was not only a public servant but also a beloved figure in Montecristi, many are reflecting on her legacy. Her family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time, stating, "We thank all those who have expressed their love and solidarity at this difficult moment. Her legacy of service and love for others will live forever in our hearts."
The investigation into the cause of the roof collapse continues, with officials stressing the importance of uncovering the truth behind this devastating incident. As search and recovery efforts proceed, the nation mourns the loss of its citizens, including influential figures like Nelsy Cruz, who dedicated her life to serving her community.
