Tragedy in the Capital: Nightclub Roof Collapse Kills 98, Including Sitting Governor, Injures Over 160
A devastating roof collapse at the renowned Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican capital has left at least 98 people dead and more than 160 injured, with the casualty count expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The incident occurred during the early hours of Tuesday as hundreds gathered for a high-profile concert attended by political figures, athletes, and celebrities. Authorities estimate that between 500 and 1,000 individuals were inside the venue at the time of the collapse.
Among those confirmed dead are Monte Cristi provincial governor Nelsy Cruz, sister of former MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz, and former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel. Dotel, 51, was pulled from the rubble but succumbed to his injuries en route to a local hospital. His death has drawn tributes from across the baseball community, including his former teams and the Dominican Republic’s Professional Baseball League.
Carlos Mendoza, manager of the New York Mets, expressed his sorrow, stating, “Thinking about our people in the Dominican Republic.”
Emergency Operations Center Director Juan Manuel Mendez confirmed the preliminary death toll and said over 400 emergency personnel are involved in the search for survivors. “The preliminary death toll has risen to 98,” Mendez reported.
Survivors recounted terrifying moments before the collapse. Concertgoer Iris Peña recalled noticing dust falling into her drink just before a stone cracked the table she was sitting at. “We got out just in time,” she told local media. Witnesses compared the impact to that of a natural disaster.
Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the collapse, and an investigation is currently underway. Meanwhile, hospitals in the area are overwhelmed as family members seek information about loved ones. “We are desperate,” said Regina del Rosa, whose sister attended the event. “They are not giving us news; they are not telling us anything.”
As the nation mourns, rescue teams continue working around the clock in hopes of finding more survivors. President Luis Abinader has pledged support to the victims’ families and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the tragedy.
The full extent of the disaster is still unfolding.
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