On the early morning of April 8, 2025, a tragic event unfolded at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, when the roof of the venue collapsed during a lively merengue concert. The incident has resulted in a devastating toll, with at least 79 confirmed dead and over 150 injured, as rescue operations continue amidst the wreckage.
The collapse occurred around 12:44 a.m. local time (04:44 GMT), just as the popular merengue singer Rubby Pérez was performing to an enthusiastic crowd. Hundreds of patrons, many of whom were prominent figures from the realms of politics, sports, and culture, were in attendance at the nightclub, which has a capacity of approximately 2,000 people.
According to General Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center for Emergency Operations (COE), rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped beneath the debris. Early reports indicated that dozens of voices could still be heard calling for help from within the rubble. "While there is still hope of life, we will continue working to rescue anyone still trapped," Méndez stated during a press conference.
As the rescue efforts unfolded, the emotional toll on families waiting outside the nightclub was palpable. Many relatives gathered in desperation, hoping for news of their loved ones. One woman, Regina del Rosa, expressed her anguish, saying, "We are desperate! They aren’t giving us any news; they aren’t telling us anything." Amidst the chaos, reports confirmed that Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province, was among the deceased, having attended the concert.
Tragically, the nightclub's saxophonist did not survive the collapse, and former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel was reported dead after being rescued from the wreckage and transported to a hospital. The news of Dotel's passing shocked the nation, as he was a well-known figure in Dominican sports.
President Luis Abinader visited the site of the disaster and emphasized the importance of saving lives. He stated, "All rescue organizations have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts." In a heartfelt message on social media, Abinader expressed his condolences to the victims' families and assured the public that the situation was being monitored closely.
As the hours passed, the number of confirmed fatalities rose. Initially reported at 58, the death toll later climbed to at least 79, with more than 155 individuals injured and transported to various hospitals across the capital. Méndez noted that the rescue operations are being supported by specialized units from the armed forces and fire departments, who are employing thermal cameras to locate trapped individuals.
Witnesses recounted the moments leading up to the collapse. Videos shared on social media captured the chaotic scene as the audience was enjoying the performance. "It happened so fast. I thought it was an earthquake; that’s why I threw myself to the floor and covered my head," recounted Pérez's manager, Enrique Paulino, who survived the incident.
The Jet Set nightclub, a local institution known for its Monday night parties, had been remodeled several times over its 50-year history, with the last renovation occurring in 2015. It had previously suffered a fire in 2023 caused by a lightning strike. Investigations into the cause of the roof collapse are ongoing, as authorities scrutinize the building's safety and maintenance records.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Dominican government declared three days of national mourning. Citizens have been encouraged to donate blood to assist the injured, and various donation centers have been established across the city.
As rescue teams continue to search for survivors, the atmosphere remains one of somber hope. Many families continue to gather at the National Institute of Forensic Sciences, where images of the victims are being displayed to aid in identification. The community is rallying together, with many expressing their grief and solidarity in the face of this catastrophic event.
In the coming days, as the rescue operations proceed, the focus will remain on uncovering the full extent of the tragedy and providing support to those affected. The Jet Set nightclub, once a vibrant hub of nightlife, now stands as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unexpected nature of disaster.
