Nightclub Roof Collapse in Dominican Republic Kills at Least 79, Including Former MLB Stars
A devastating roof collapse at a well-known nightclub in the Dominican Republic has claimed the lives of at least 79 people, including two former Major League Baseball players, and left over 220 injured. Rescue operations continue at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, where emergency workers are searching through rubble for survivors.
The collapse occurred around 1 a.m. Tuesday during a live performance by merengue star Rubby Pérez and his orchestra. At the time, the venue was packed with approximately 300 people. Pérez’s whereabouts remain unknown, fueling fears he may be among the victims.
“We’re clearing debris and continuing the search without rest,” said Juan Manuel Méndez, head of the Emergency Operations Center.
Heartbroken families gathered at the site throughout Tuesday, clutching photos of their missing loved ones, while ambulances rushed the injured to hospitals. By Tuesday evening, the death toll had risen from an initial 66 to 79, according to the country’s Health Ministry.
The cause of the collapse is still under investigation.
Dramatic aerial footage revealed a massive gaping hole where the nightclub’s roof once stood. Video from inside the club showed the moment disaster struck—lights began to fall, followed by the ceiling crashing down as people screamed and scrambled in the darkness.
Among those killed was former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel. He was pulled alive from the debris but died en route to the hospital. His foundation confirmed the news, and his education center, Colegio Sabiduríay Baluarte, issued a statement honoring his legacy.
Tony Blanco, another former MLB player, also perished in the collapse, according to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and the Dominican Republic’s Sports Ministry.
Dominican President Luis Abinader confirmed the death of Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province and a relative of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. The son of Public Works Minister Eduardo Estrella remains missing.
Officials said personnel from more than 22 government agencies are assisting in the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
President Abinader has declared three days of national mourning. He and First Lady Raquel Arbaje visited the scene Tuesday morning, offering condolences to victims and their families.
“We deeply mourn the tragedy at Jet Set nightclub,” the president said on social media. “All relevant agencies are doing everything possible to aid in the rescue. Our hearts are with the affected families.”
Santo Domingo Mayor Carolina Mejía also offered her condolences, calling the incident a “terrible tragedy” for the city.
Jet Set, one of the country’s most iconic nightclubs, is especially popular on Monday nights and has long been a hub for music and
celebration in the capital.
