In brief
Over 100 fatalities and numerous injuries reported as officials search for missing persons amid the tragedy.
In a devastating incident, the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed during a performance by merengue artist Rubby Pérez, resulting in at least 113 confirmed deaths and over 150 injuries. The collapse occurred just before 1 AM local time while the venue was filled with guests enjoying the concert. Mobile footage that has been verified by news outlets captured the moments leading up to the incident, highlighting the chaos as the roof began to cave in.Among the deceased are notable figures including Rubby Pérez, former MLB star Octavio Dotel, and the provincial governor Nelsy Cruz. A witness's harrowing video recorded moments before the collapse shows Pérez performing, with patrons expressing confusion and concern about the noises coming from above. Desperate family members have gathered near the site, holding vigils for their missing loved ones. Zulinka Pérez, who is also a singer in her father's band, recounted her near escape from the tragedy. She was shielded by her husband when the collapse occurred but was tragically informed that her father, who managed to sing to guide rescuers to him, had died from his injuries. Nelsy Cruz, who initially alerted the president for emergency assistance while trapped, unfortunately succumbed to her injuries later on. Eyewitness accounts describe the chaos and fear as debris fell, highlighting the precarious condition of the venue that was formerly a cinema. As investigations continue into what caused the collapse, President Luis Abinader has declared three days of national mourning for the victims.
