A tragic incident unfolded in the Dominican Republic as the roof of a nightclub collapsed during a concert, leaving 79 people dead and at least 160 injured. The accident occurred at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, the capital city, while a live performance was underway. Rescue teams and police are continuing to search for survivors trapped under the rubble.
The collapse took place at the one-storey Jet Set nightclub, with search and debris-clearing operations still ongoing more than 12 hours after the incident. Firefighters are working tirelessly to remove people trapped beneath the concrete slabs. Reports indicate that several prominent individuals were among the victims.
Nelcy Cruz, Governor of Montecristi Province, confirmed that the sister of baseball star Nelson Cruz was among those who lost their lives in the collapse. Member of Parliament Bray Vargas was also injured in the incident. Authorities have yet to confirm the whereabouts of singer Ruby Pirez, who was performing at the time of the collapse. While some of his relatives believe he survived, officials have stated that he remains unaccounted for. According to eyewitnesses, the roof came down roughly an hour after the concert began. A saxophonist from the performing group was confirmed dead.
The cause of the roof collapse remains unknown. Some attendees initially suspected an earthquake may have triggered the disaster, though this has not been confirmed. In a statement, the nightclub said it was cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation. The club’s owner, Antonio Spalliat, is reportedly not in the country at present.
