SANTO DOMININGO: The death toll from the catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in santo domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, has tragically risen to 218, marking one of the deadliest peacetime disasters in the Caribbean nation’s recent history.
The fatal incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, as hundreds of partygoers had gathered at the popular nightclub for a live performance. The venue, known for hosting high-profile artists and drawing large weekend crowds, turned into a scene of horror and chaos when the building’s roof suddenly gave way, trapping hundreds beneath the rubble.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Juan Manuel Méndez, the Director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), confirmed the staggering loss of life.
“Unfortunately and with deep regret, we can now confirm that 218 people have died, according to preliminary figures,” Méndez said solemnly.
Since the disaster struck, rescue teams have been working around the clock, using heavy machinery, sniffer dogs, and even manual tools in a desperate effort to locate survivors beneath the debris. Méndez also reported that at least 189 individuals had been rescued alive, many of whom sustained serious injuries and have been transported to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
At the time of the incident, it is estimated that between 500 and 1,000 people were inside the Jet Set nightclub. The club was reportedly hosting a special concert featuring some of the region’s most beloved performers. The excitement of the night quickly turned into tragedy as the roof collapsed mid-performance, sending debris crashing onto the crowd below.
Read also:
- At Least 50 Dead in Fire at Nightclub in North Macedonia During Concert
- Traders Lose Millions as Fire Razes Shops at Spare Parts Market in Lagos
- 17 Students Killed In Kenya Elementary School Fire As Officials Say 70 Remain Missing
Among the deceased are several high-profile figures, including the celebrated merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing on stage when the collapse occurred. Pérez, widely considered a legend in Dominican music, had drawn a large crowd that night. His death has sent shockwaves through the music community and the nation at large.
Also among the victims were two former Major League Baseball players, whose names have not yet been officially released, and a local politician known for his active involvement in community development. Their sudden and tragic deaths have deepened the sense of national mourning
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the collapse, but an investigation is underway to determine whether structural failures, overcrowding, or other factors contributed to the tragedy. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking noise moments before the ceiling gave way, suggesting possible structural fatigue or overload.
An aerial view shows rescue teams working at the Jet Set nightclub a day after the collapse of its roof in Santo Domingo on April 9, 202
The Dominican government has declared a period of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and entertainment events suspended in honor of the victims. President Luis Abinader expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and praised the bravery of the rescue teams working under difficult conditions.
“This is a time of great sorrow for our nation. We mourn the lives lost, and we will do everything in our power to support the families affected and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again,” the president said in a televised statement.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, there are growing calls for greater oversight of public venues, especially those with large capacities. The tragedy has reignited debates over building safety codes, emergency preparedness, and the need for stricter enforcement of public safety regulations.
In the meantime, medical teams, mental health counselors, and volunteers have mobilized across the city to support victims and their loved ones, providing not only medical aid but also emotional and psychological care as the community begins to process the scale of the loss.
This heartbreaking event will be remembered as one of the darkest days in the Dominican Republic’s history, not only for the sheer number of lives lost but for the cultural and emotional blow it has dealt to the nation.
