A tragic incident strikes the Dominican Republic as a popular nightclub roof falls during a concert, claiming the lives of prominent figures, including former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel and local officials, while rescue efforts continue.
Nightclub Tragedy in Dominican Republic: Roof Collapse Claims 79 Lives
Nightclub Tragedy in Dominican Republic: Roof Collapse Claims 79 Lives
A devastating roof collapse at a Santo Domingo nightclub during a concert has left at least 79 dead and over 150 injured.
At least 79 individuals have lost their lives and over 150 have sustained injuries following a tragic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The incident occurred during a concert by renowned merengue artist Rubby Pérez in the early hours of Tuesday. Among the deceased was Octavio Dotel, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, who died en route to the hospital after being rescued from the wreckage.
The venue was packed with concertgoers when the roof caved in, leading to a frantic search for survivors. Currently, approximately 400 emergency responders are on the scene, sifting through the rubble in hopes of finding more individuals alive. The director of the Emergency Operations Centre, Juan Manuel Méndez, expressed cautious optimism that some people may still be trapped but alive beneath the debris.
Also among the casualties was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, who was attending the event with other notable figures from various sectors, including politics and sports. President Luis Abinader lamented the fatalities in a statement of condolence.
Witnesses have described a chaotic scene, with some present believing it was an earthquake due to the suddenness of the collapse. Video footage from the inside of the club captures the moments leading up to the disaster, revealing a lively crowd captured in their festivities until panic ensued just moments before the roof gave way.
Eyewitness accounts recount the terror experienced as the singer continued performing, unaware of the imminent catastrophe. The daughter of Rubby Pérez confirmed that her father was also trapped in the debris during this tragic occurrence.
As rescue operations persist, the community mourns the loss of life and extends sympathies to the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
