At least
44 killed and 160 injured after the Jet Set nightclub roof collapsed during a
merengue concert in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
.jpg "Rescue workers search rubble after Jet Set nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo")
Santo
Domingo, Dominican Republic – April 9, 2025 — A devastating roof collapse at a
popular nightclub in Santo Domingo left at least 44 people dead and 160
injured, authorities confirmed Tuesday.
The
incident occurred just after midnight at 12:34 a.m., during a live performance
by iconic Dominican merengue singer Rubby Pérez at the Jet Set nightclub, a
well-known venue in the capital.
According
to the Dominican civil defense, the roof collapsed within seconds, catching
hundreds of concertgoers off guard. Rescue operations are ongoing as emergency
responders search the rubble for survivors.
“We
deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub,” said
President Luis Abinader in a statement. “All relief agencies have provided the
necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts. Our
prayers are with the affected families.”
Among the
deceased is Montecristi Governor Nelsy Milagros Cruz, according to the national
police and the president’s office.
Scene of
Chaos and Grief
Images
from the scene show rescue teams evacuating the injured, while families
gathered outside the ruins, many desperately searching for loved ones. Videos
posted on social media by DJ Shakirax, who was performing at the club, show the
moment panic erupted as the ceiling collapsed.
“Everything
happened so fast. There was no time to react,” said one survivor, who was near
the back of the club.
The Jet
Set nightclub, a landmark in Santo Domingo’s nightlife, had previously
sustained damage during a 2023 fire, officials said. It is not yet clear
whether structural issues related to that incident contributed to the collapse.
An
official investigation into the cause is underway, police said.