“Tragedy Strikes: 44 Dead in Nightclub Roof Collapse”
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — A devastating incident occurred early Tuesday in the Dominican capital, resulting in the loss of at least 44 lives and injuries to 160 individuals. The tragic event unfolded at a popular nightclub where a merengue concert was being attended by politicians, athletes, and other guests. Rescue efforts are underway to locate any potential survivors amidst the debris of the collapsed roof at the one-story Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, as stated by Juan Manuel Méndez, the director of the Center of Emergency Operations. Méndez expressed determination to continue the search until every person is accounted for.
Rescue teams have been tirelessly working for nearly 12 hours, extracting survivors from the rubble. Firefighters are clearing the wreckage by removing concrete blocks and using wooden planks to lift heavy debris. The confirmed death toll has tragically risen to 44, with numerous injuries reported. Among the victims was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province and sister of baseball star Nelson Cruz, who perished in the collapse. The First Lady, Raquel Abraje, shared the heartbreaking news of Cruz’s passing and emphasized the enormity of the tragedy.
The Professional Baseball League of the Dominican Republic mourned the loss of MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel, who succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. Notable figures such as legislator Bray Vargas and merengue singer Rubby Pérez were also among the injured. Pérez was performing when the roof collapsed, leading to chaos and devastation within moments. Eyewitnesses recounted the swift and harrowing events, with the concert abruptly turning into a scene of destruction.
The cause of the roof collapse remains unclear, prompting investigations into the structural integrity of the nightclub. Jet Set nightclub expressed cooperation with authorities and deep sorrow over the loss of lives. Concerns have been raised regarding the building’s safety compliance, as questions surround the last inspection conducted. Officials are engaged in the rescue operation, focusing on locating survivors and providing necessary support to those affected by the tragedy.
Families and loved ones of the missing individuals anxiously await news outside the nightclub, clinging to hope and faith during this challenging time. President Abinader expressed solidarity and support for the rescue efforts, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of such a catastrophic event.
Authorities are putting in relentless efforts to assist those impacted by the tragedy at the Jet Set nightclub. President Abinader expressed deep regret over the incident, stating that they have been closely monitoring the situation since it occurred. He comforted individuals searching for loved ones at the scene and expressed hope for more survivors to be rescued. Officials urged the crowd to give space to ambulances and cooperate with authorities in the search and rescue efforts. At hospitals, names of survivors were read out loud to help families locate their loved ones, while at the National Institute of Forensic Pathology, photos of the victims were displayed for identification. (Reporting by Coto from San Juan, Puerto Rico)
