A deadly ceiling collapse at the Jet Set Club in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic has killed at least 13 people and injured over 90 during a packed late-night concert early morning.
Key Takeaways
- The ceiling collapsed at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, killing at least 13 people including the band’s saxophonist.
- Over 90 people were injured, with as many as 125 transported to eight local hospitals that were placed on red alert to handle casualties.
- A massive emergency response included 77 ambulances, eight fire trucks, 200 National Police members, 50 soldiers, and 30 Civil Defense rescuers.
- Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has expressed regret and confirmed all relief agencies are working tirelessly in ongoing rescue efforts.
- The fate of performer Rubby Perez remains unknown as family members of attendees gather outside the venue awaiting information.
Massive Nightclub Disaster Unfolds
The Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo became the scene of a catastrophic structural failure when its ceiling suddenly collapsed during a concert packed with patrons. Emergency Operations Center director Juan Manuel Mendez confirmed the tragedy occurred in the early morning hours. Videos circulating on social media show the venue was filled with people enjoying live music when the structure gave way without warning, causing immediate panic as concert-goers tried to escape the falling debris.
The collapse claimed the lives of at least 13 people, with one confirmed fatality being the saxophonist performing with the band. The disaster injured more than 90 others, many of whom were trapped beneath the rubble. The Dominican Republic National Police has released footage of the recovery operation, showing the extensive damage and the challenging conditions faced by first responders as they worked to free survivors from the wreckage.
A tragic incident has occurred in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed early in the morning.
The collapse took place during a performance by merengue singer Rubby Pérez, resulting in significant loss of life and injuries.
Reports… pic.twitter.com/yPSLOdC9Lj— The Business Times (@tbtimes_kenya) April 8, 2025
Massive Emergency Response Mobilized
Dominican authorities launched an immediate and comprehensive emergency response to address the crisis. The operation involved 77 ambulances, eight fire trucks, approximately 200 National Police officers, 50 soldiers, and 30 Civil Defense rescuers who converged on the scene. Juan Manuel Méndez, who heads the country’s Emergency Operations Center, has been coordinating the massive effort, noting the critical nature of the situation.
Eight hospitals throughout Santo Domingo were placed on red alert to receive and treat the injured, including Cuban, Royal, Modern, and UCE medical centers. According to journalist Anibelca Rosario, at least 125 people were transferred to various health facilities. The search for survivors continues, with reports indicating that some people trapped under the debris have been able to communicate with rescuers, giving hope that additional lives may be saved.
Government Response and Ongoing Concerns
Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has been closely monitoring the situation since it occurred. In a public statement, he expressed his administration’s commitment to the rescue efforts and offered condolences to those affected by the tragedy. “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. We have followed 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,” said the President.
As emergency operations continue, the condition of concert performer Rubby Perez remains unknown, adding to the anxiety felt by many. Outside the collapsed structure, distressed family members and friends have gathered seeking information about their loved ones. The scene remains tense as one bystander told reporters, “We don’t know anything, no one is answering their phones.” Emergency operations chief Mendez, who reportedly “has not slept” since the disaster began, has committed to a thorough investigation to determine what caused the structural failure.
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Nightclub horror leaves 18 dead and 120 injured as roof collapses in on dance floor
Dominican Republic nightclub collapse kills at least 13 as roof plunges onto packed dancefloor
