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A horrific tragedy unfolded in the Dominican Republic when the roof of the popular Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed during a live performance, killing more than 100 people and injuring dozens more. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8, and has shocked the nation.
Among the dead are two former Major League Baseball players, Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, as well as beloved merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing at the time of the collapse.
Panic Strikes During Packed Event
The nightclub was filled with over 300 guests enjoying a live music show when the roof suddenly gave way around 1 a.m. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, launching a large-scale rescue operation to pull survivors from the rubble.
Sadly, Dotel was found alive but died before reaching the hospital. Blanco, Pérez, and many others were confirmed dead at the scene.
Public Figures Among the Victims
Also among the deceased was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, who was reportedly related to a well-known Dominican baseball player. In total, 113 people have been confirmed dead, with 33 victims still unidentified.
At least 155 others were injured and taken to hospitals for treatment. Authorities are continuing to search for survivors, including the son of a senior government minister, who remains missing.
Cause of Collapse Still Unknown
The exact reason for the building’s collapse remains unclear. Aerial images show a massive hole where the nightclub’s roof once was, and structural engineers are now investigating the cause of the failure.
Officials say over 22 public agencies have been mobilized to assist in rescue and recovery efforts.
National Mourning Declared
In response to the devastating loss of life, the Dominican president has declared three days of national mourning. He offered condolences to the families affected and praised the ongoing rescue efforts.
This heartbreaking event has left the country in shock, mourning the lives lost and demanding answers as the investigation continues.
