Tragedy Strikes as Jet Set Nightclub Ceiling Collapses During Performance

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — A catastrophic event unfolded early Monday when the ceiling of the iconic Jet Set nightclub collapsed while merengue singer Rubby Pérez was performing, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.

The incident occurred at 12:44 a.m., as the venue was crowded with attendees enjoying a popular weekly fiesta. Preliminary reports indicate that at least 12 people are confirmed dead, with dozens more injured, according to the Center for Emergency Operations (COE).

Emergency response teams have mobilized extensively, including 77 ambulances from the Directorate of Extrahospital Emergency Care (DAEH), eight fire department units, and over 370 rescuers. The National Emergency and Safety Service 911 coordinated the response, receiving over 100 emergency calls regarding the collapse of the building on Avenida Independencia.

“We are focused on finding and rescuing those who may still be trapped while providing medical attention to the injured,” said Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the COE, who is on-site with high-ranking officials including Police Chief Ramón Antonio Guzmán Peralta and Vice Admiral Agustín Alberto Morillo Rodríguez, commander of the Dominican Navy.

Méndez confirmed that as the rescue efforts continue, the government has instructed that all available resources be utilized to address the emerging crisis adequately. “The president has directed us to act decisively and prevent any further loss of life,” he added.

In the wake of the disaster, injured individuals are being transported to various medical facilities, including Centro Médico Cubano, Centro Médico Moderno, and several hospitals in the capital such as Darío Contreras and Ney Arias Lora.

Eyewitness accounts reveal scenes of chaos as the ceiling came crashing down without warning, leaving terrified patrons scrambling for safety. “The music stopped suddenly, and there was nothing but screams and panic,” one witness recounted.

Social media has been flooded with heartbreaking images depicting the aftermath of the collapse, as rescuers diligently search through debris for survivors. Witnesses reported hearing a loud cracking before the structure failed.

As the tragic event unfolds, the Fiscalía del Distrito Nacional has begun an investigation to determine if negligence or inadequate maintenance contributed to the collapse of a building that has stood as a nightlife staple for decades.

Jet Set is renowned for hosting high-profile artists and attracting crowds every Monday night. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the venue held all the necessary operational permits and what the current condition of its infrastructure was.

Outside the nightclub, family members have gathered, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. Many have started lighting candles in memory of the deceased, creating a somber atmosphere. The government has promised to provide psychological support to survivors and families affected by the tragedy, pledging to keep the public informed of ongoing developments.