In Santo Domingo, the roof of a popular nightclub collapsed early Tuesday morning.
At least 79 people were killed, including former Major League Baseball players.
Over 220 people were injured during the disaster at Jet Set nightclub.
The collapse happened around 1 a.m. during a live performance by merengue star Rubby Pérez
Authorities have not yet confirmed the artist’s condition or if he is among the victims.
Ongoing Rescue
Emergency workers continued to dig through debris Tuesday evening in search of survivors.
Juan Manuel Méndez, Emergency Operations Center director, vowed tireless efforts to find people.
Rescue operations began shortly after the collapse and have not stopped since.
Officials believe more victims may still be trapped under the rubble.
The full number of those missing is still being determined.
Packed Venue
About 300 people were inside Jet Set nightclub when the tragedy occurred.
It was a Monday night event, a time the club is usually filled with guests.
Videos and photos from the scene show stunned families gathering outside.
People held up images of missing loved ones, hoping for news.
Ambulances rushed the injured to nearby hospitals throughout the night.
Casualty Report
The National Emergency System confirmed that 223 people sustained injuries.
By Tuesday night, the Health Ministry raised the death toll from 66 to 79.
The number may increase as rescue work continues under dangerous conditions.
The government has not provided a final list of the deceased yet.
Investigations into the cause of the collapse are currently ongoing.
Unknown Cause
No official explanation has been given for what caused the building to give way.
Aerial footage shows a huge hole in the nightclub’s center.
This area is believed to be where the audience stood during the concert.
The collapse happened without warning, shocking both staff and guests.
Structural failure or overcrowding could be factors, but nothing is confirmed yet.
National Mourning
President Luis Abinader declared three days of national mourning after the tragedy.
He visited the site Tuesday morning with First Lady Raquel Arbaje.
They spoke with victims’ families and rescue personnel at the scene.
Abinader posted on X expressing sorrow and promising full government support.
“All rescue agencies are providing the needed assistance,” he wrote.
City Reaction
Carolina Mejía de Garrigó, the Santo Domingo mayor, shared her condolences publicly.
She called the incident a “terrible tragedy” affecting the entire city.
Many locals described the event as the worst nightclub disaster in years.
People across the country are mourning the lives lost in this collapse.
Jet Set nightclub is well-known throughout the Caribbean for its music events.
Cultural Landmark
The nightclub has long been a hub for famous merengue and salsa performers.
Its Monday events often attract large crowds and celebrities.
Jet Set’s fame and regular attendance made the disaster even more impactful.
Many Dominicans have shared memories from their time at the venue.
Now, the site is a place of sorrow and loss for many.
Ongoing Vigil
Families continue to wait near the wreckage for any updates.
Some are refusing to leave until their loved ones are found.
Volunteers are assisting emergency teams by distributing water and food.
Medical teams remain on-site, treating minor injuries and offering emotional support.
A hotline has been established for families to seek missing persons’ information.
National Reflection
This tragedy has sparked a conversation on building safety in the Dominican Republic.
Officials are urging inspections of similar venues across the country.
Many are questioning how a high-profile club failed structurally during a busy event.
Public pressure is growing for accountability and swift government action.
For now, the focus remains on rescue, recovery, and honoring the lives lost.
