Tragedy Strikes Jet Set Nightclub as Roof Collapses, Killing at Least 184

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — A night of music and celebration turned tragic early Tuesday morning when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a merengue concert, resulting in at least 184 deaths and more than 250 injuries.

The collapse occurred around 12:44 a.m. local time, as popular tropical music singer Rubby Pérez performed for a crowd estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 attendees. Witnesses reported hearing sounds of falling debris moments before the roof gave way.

General Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Center, confirmed that the casualty count includes notable figures from sports, politics, and the arts, heightening the nation’s grief over the incident.

Pérez, 69, was among the deceased. He was celebrated as one of the foremost artists in the genre and was performing on stage when the roof collapsed. Méndez confirmed that Pérez’s body was recovered from the rubble early Wednesday.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub,” said President Luis Abinader after visiting the scene. He declared three days of national mourning and emphasized that the priority remains saving lives.

Survivor Luis Graveley recounted the horrifying moment: “It was sudden; we heard a loud noise and the roof just collapsed. I was fortunate to escape through the emergency exit.” Some attendees reported seeing debris fall before the collapse and described the chaotic moments that ensued.

Rescue operations have seen hundreds of responders working tirelessly to locate trapped individuals, with Méndez stating that around 145 people have been rescued so far. However, the number of missing persons remains unclear as rescue teams continue to search through the heavy debris.

The nightclub, known for its vibrant dances and live performances, has been a cultural landmark in Santo Domingo for 50 years. Photos and videos shared on social media captured the frightening scene as the roof gave way, plunging a joyous occasion into chaos.

Among the confirmed victims are former Major League Baseball player Octavio Dotel and former player Tony Blanco Cabrera. Dotel, who played for 13 teams during his career, was pronounced dead at a local hospital after being rescued.

Nelsy Milagros Cruz Martínez, the governor of Monte Cristi province, was also identified among the casualties. She had reportedly called the president for assistance before being trapped in the collapse.

The causes of the structural failure are still under investigation. Authorities have not confirmed how often inspections were conducted at the venue.

As the rescue operations progress, family members of those missing have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting news about their loved ones. “We are desperate for information,” commented Regina del Rosa, whose sister was at the club during the collapse.

The Jet Set nightclub, once a vibrant venue that hosted many of the Caribbean’s top musical acts, remains in shock and mourning as the tragedy continues to unfold. The community’s hope is now focused on the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts as the search for survivors continues.