A devastating tragedy struck the Dominican Republic in the early hours of April 8, 2025, when the ceiling of the renowned Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed, claiming the lives of at least 66 people and injuring more than 150 others. The catastrophe unfolded while legendary merengue singer Rubby Pérez was performing before a packed crowd of around 300 attendees.
Panic and Chaos as Ceiling Gives Way
Witnesses described the horrifying moments leading up to the collapse. Some reported seeing small pieces of debris falling from the ceiling just minutes before the structural failure. Others recalled a disturbing cracking noise that sent shockwaves of fear through the audience. Then, without further warning, a massive section of the ceiling caved in, sending metal beams, concrete, and debris crashing onto unsuspecting concertgoers.
“Everything happened so fast. One moment we were singing along with Rubby Pérez, and the next, there was dust everywhere, people screaming, and complete darkness,” recounted a survivor who managed to crawl out from under the wreckage.
Notable Victims and Survivors
Among the casualties were notable figures from sports and politics. Former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco were both in attendance and tragically lost their lives. Dotel, a celebrated pitcher known for his 15-season career in the MLB, and Blanco, a powerful hitter with international experience, were both mourned deeply by the baseball community.
Monte Cristi province governor Nelsy Cruz was also among the deceased, leaving a significant void in local governance. The nightclub collapse sent shockwaves through the country, with government officials and community leaders expressing their condolences.
The fate of Rubby Pérez, the performer on stage when the incident occurred, was uncertain in the immediate aftermath. Conflicting reports emerged about his condition, with some suggesting he had been trapped under the rubble, while others indicated he had managed to escape with minor injuries. His daughter, who was also present, later confirmed that he was found singing under the debris, using his voice to signal rescuers.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Local emergency services, including firefighters, police, and medical teams, responded swiftly to the scene. Over 400 personnel worked tirelessly through the night, sifting through the rubble to locate survivors. At least 138 people were rescued and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of injuries ranging from minor fractures to severe trauma.
As dawn broke over Santo Domingo, rescue efforts continued, with authorities using specialized equipment and sniffer dogs to search for any remaining victims. Many family members gathered outside the site, anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones.
Investigation and Structural Concerns
Officials have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest that the building’s structural integrity may have been compromised due to a lack of proper maintenance. Engineers and construction experts are analyzing whether substandard materials, aging infrastructure, or unauthorized renovations played a role in the disaster.
The incident has sparked a nationwide debate on building safety regulations, particularly for entertainment venues. Government agencies have vowed to conduct thorough inspections of other popular nightclubs and public gathering places to prevent a similar tragedy from occurring in the future.
National Mourning and Public Outcry
In response to the magnitude of the disaster, Dominican President Luis Abinader declared three days of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast across the country. Public figures, musicians, and athletes have expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families.
Many Dominicans have taken to social media to demand accountability, calling for stricter enforcement of building codes and safety standards. Some have criticized nightclub management for potentially ignoring early warning signs of structural weakness.
A Tragedy That Will Not Be Forgotten
The collapse of the Jet Set nightclub ceiling is one of the deadliest disasters in the Dominican Republic’s recent history. It has left an indelible mark on the nation, reminding authorities and business owners alike of the dire consequences of neglecting safety regulations.
As investigations continue and families grieve their lost loved ones, the people of the Dominican Republic are united in their determination to seek justice and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.
