In the aftermath of a catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set, a renowned nightclub in Santo Domingo on Tuesday, the toll has escalated to at least 113 fatalities, according to Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Dominican Emergency Operations Center. The collapse occurred during a live merengue performance at around 12:45 a.m., triggering an urgent rescue operation that has so far yielded no signs of life amid the debris. Efforts involving heavy machinery, trained dogs, drones, and specialized equipment have been deployed to search for survivors while families anxiously await information on their loved ones.
Méndez reported that there have been 155 hospital transfers, noting the possibility of multiple victims transported by each ambulance. Among the deceased is popular performer Rubby Pérez, who was on stage when the tragic accident struck.
The Jet Set nightclub held a treasured place in Dominican culture, frequented for decades by locals and notable personalities, including entertainers, athletes, and politicians. The tragic event shocked the nation, with high-profile figures among those lost, including two former Major League Baseball players, a governor, and a prominent fashion designer. One congress member has also been reported seriously injured in the incident.
