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Thursday, Aug 20, 2026
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At Least 58 Dead Following Nightclub Roof Collapse in Santo Domingo
Emergency operations underway as search for survivors continues after disaster at Jet Set nightclub.
At least 58 individuals have been confirmed deceased and more than 160 injured after the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed in the early hours of Tuesday in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
The incident occurred during a concert featuring popular merengue singer Rubby Pérez.
Emergency responders, including approximately 400 search and rescue workers, are actively working to locate and assist survivors trapped in the rubble.
Juan Manuel Méndez, the director of the Center of Emergency Operations (COE), indicated that rescue teams are using thermal imaging cameras and other equipment to assist their efforts.
He noted that there remains hope that individuals may still be alive under the debris, and rescuers continue to search diligently, stating, "We have not focused on counting bodies.
We're focused on listening.
Voices are still being heard asking for help."
Among the deceased, Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province and sister of Major League Baseball All-Star Nelson Cruz, has been officially confirmed.
She reportedly contacted President Luis Abinader during the incident, indicating she was trapped.
Former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel was also identified among the victims; he succumbed to injuries after being rescued from the wreckage.
The nightclub, Jet Set, is a well-frequented venue in Santo Domingo, known for hosting dance music events.
Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of initial excitement before the structure's sudden collapse, with patrons dancing and enjoying the performance before chaos ensued.
Video footage shared online captured the moments leading up to the tragedy, including a concert-goer expressing concern about the ceiling's stability shortly before the collapse took place.
President Abinader has expressed condolences through social media, stating, "We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub.
We have been following the incident minute by minute since it occurred.
All relief agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts.
Our prayers are with the affected families."
Rescue operations remain ongoing, as authorities work intensively to navigate through the debris.
Eyewitnesses and family members stand outside the club, anxiously awaiting news of their relatives.
Manuel Olivo Ortiz, whose son attended the concert, expressed his hope for any updates, while Massiel Cuevas awaited word about her goddaughter.
Currently, the cause of the structural failure has not been determined.
The Jet Set nightclub has released a statement affirming their cooperation with authorities during the investigation.
The incident has drawn widespread attention, prompting reactions from both local leaders and the international community.
The incident occurred during a concert featuring popular merengue singer Rubby Pérez.
Emergency responders, including approximately 400 search and rescue workers, are actively working to locate and assist survivors trapped in the rubble.
Juan Manuel Méndez, the director of the Center of Emergency Operations (COE), indicated that rescue teams are using thermal imaging cameras and other equipment to assist their efforts.
He noted that there remains hope that individuals may still be alive under the debris, and rescuers continue to search diligently, stating, "We have not focused on counting bodies.
We're focused on listening.
Voices are still being heard asking for help."
Among the deceased, Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province and sister of Major League Baseball All-Star Nelson Cruz, has been officially confirmed.
She reportedly contacted President Luis Abinader during the incident, indicating she was trapped.
Former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel was also identified among the victims; he succumbed to injuries after being rescued from the wreckage.
The nightclub, Jet Set, is a well-frequented venue in Santo Domingo, known for hosting dance music events.
Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of initial excitement before the structure's sudden collapse, with patrons dancing and enjoying the performance before chaos ensued.
Video footage shared online captured the moments leading up to the tragedy, including a concert-goer expressing concern about the ceiling's stability shortly before the collapse took place.
President Abinader has expressed condolences through social media, stating, "We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub.
We have been following the incident minute by minute since it occurred.
All relief agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts.
Our prayers are with the affected families."
Rescue operations remain ongoing, as authorities work intensively to navigate through the debris.
Eyewitnesses and family members stand outside the club, anxiously awaiting news of their relatives.
Manuel Olivo Ortiz, whose son attended the concert, expressed his hope for any updates, while Massiel Cuevas awaited word about her goddaughter.
Currently, the cause of the structural failure has not been determined.
The Jet Set nightclub has released a statement affirming their cooperation with authorities during the investigation.
The incident has drawn widespread attention, prompting reactions from both local leaders and the international community.