SANTO DOMINGO: A devastating tragedy struck the Dominican Republic’s capital on Tuesday when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub suddenly collapsed during a concert, killing at least 79 people and injuring around 155 others. Rescue teams continued operations late into the night, desperately searching for survivors amid the debris.
Grieving families gathered near the disaster site, anxiously awaiting news about missing loved ones. Among them was retired MLB star Pedro Martinez, who shared a heartfelt message on Instagram expressing concern for his own relatives still trapped beneath the rubble.
The collapse occurred during a performance by well-known merengue artist Rubby Perez, who was confirmed among the deceased. Authorities revealed that the event had drawn several high-profile attendees, including politicians, entertainers, and athletes.
President Luis Abinader confirmed the deaths of several prominent figures, including Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province and sister of former MLB star Nelson Cruz. Former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco also lost their lives. Dotel, 51, who had a lengthy MLB career beginning with the New York Mets in 1999, died while being transported to a nearby hospital.
Emergency response chief Juan Manuel Mendez noted that the total number of people inside the venue at the time remains uncertain. Efforts to clear the rubble have intensified with the arrival of additional heavy machinery, according to presidential spokesperson Homero Figueroa.
Support services are being provided to families, while the cause of the collapse is still under active investigation. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza offered his condolences, saying, “We’re thinking of everyone in the Dominican Republic during this difficult time.”
